ISLAMABAD: Amir Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Senator Siraj-ul-Haq has called upon the government to stay away from becoming a party in Yemen, but sought Pakistan’s role as mediator in the conflict.

He spoke at Parliament’s special session which resumed today to debate on whether or not Pakistan should join Saudi-led coalition against Yemen rebels. He said Pakistan should play its role as mediator and should seek a solution without becoming part of the conflict.

“Rather than taking forward Saudi-Yemen conflict, Pakistan should put out this fire. I believe there is loss for both the Arab countries in this war,” he said. He feared that Saudi-Yemen conflict could trigger sectarian strife in the Muslim world, saying that

Pakistan must be aware of “great game” and global powers.

“I consider the Yemen wars a part of great game. Pakistan, therefore, should be aware of the international game as well as imperial designs. Global powers may take advantage of this war.” About any possible threats to Saudi Arab’s sovereignty from Yemeni rebels, he said “divine hand will save holy places of Makkah and Madina against any evil design.”

He said all Muslim countries, including Iran, should respect Saudi Arab’s territorial integrity. “To safeguard Saudi Arab’s sovereignty is responsibility of all of us. We are ready to render our lives in defence of Haramain Sharifain (Makkah and Madina).

“We are an important stakeholder in the Muslim world and should work together with our friendly countries to bring normalcy”, he said.

The Senator said that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had played an appreciable role during Iran-Iraq war “and today again the nation is looking towards the Parliament and the Prime Minister.” DNA