Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, urged all political forces to set aside their differences and stand united in the face of mounting challenges stemming from tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking at a solemn gathering on the death anniversary of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, he described the region as being in a near-war state and condemned what he called an ‘illegal war’ against Iran, while also referring to reports of the alleged martyrdom of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His remarks carried a note of urgency, warning that regional instability is spilling over and affecting Pakistan.
Bilawal Bhutto said the conflict is already having tangible effects at home. He noted that both the federal and Sindh governments are working within limited resources to provide relief, but that inflation has become unbearable for ordinary families. He proposed targeted subsidies to protect low-income groups from the worst effects of price rises.
Highlighting the Benazir Income Support Programme, he said the initiative is a vital safety net for vulnerable citizens and can play a decisive role in easing hardship during these difficult economic times. He stressed that, since March, rising inflation has placed a heavy burden on households and that the government must not leave people to shoulder these hardships alone; concrete measures are needed to ease financial stress.
He also announced that the Sindh government has decided to provide subsidies to farmers and motorcycle users to help mitigate costs for those most affected.
Reiterating that Pakistan’s nuclear program—initiated under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto—has been central to the country’s security and deterrence, he praised Bhutto’s leadership and diplomatic vision, recalling the historic Organization of Islamic Cooperation conference in Lahore. He called for greater unity among Muslim nations, arguing that leadership in the mold of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto is essential for collective Muslim solidarity.
Finally, he commended the President and provincial leaders for participating in high-level consultations and urged continued cooperation across political lines to confront the nation’s challenges together.