Pakistan Under No US Pressure to Recognize Israel, Says Ambassador

Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has firmly stated that there is no pressure from the U.S. to recognize Israel, reinforcing Pakistan’s steadfast policy rooted in the vision of its founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Speaking at a community event in Dallas, Texas, on July 13, 2025, Sheikh addressed speculation fueled by U.S. efforts to expand the Abraham Accords. This article explores Pakistan’s unwavering stance, its diplomatic priorities, and the broader geopolitical context.

Addressing the Dallas gathering, Sheikh emphasized, “There is absolutely no pressure from the U.S. regarding recognition of Israel,” as reported by Geo News. He underscored that Pakistan’s foreign policy remains anchored in Jinnah’s principles, which prioritize Palestinian rights and a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital. This stance aligns with Pakistan’s historical support for Palestine, evident in its opposition to Israel’s creation in 1947 and its consistent advocacy at the United Nations (UN) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Sheikh’s remarks also counter earlier claims by former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2020, who alleged U.S. pressure during the Trump administration—a narrative Pakistan’s Foreign Office later dismissed as baseless.

The ambassador’s statement comes amid evolving dynamics in the Middle East, where several Muslim-majority countries have normalized relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords. Pakistan, however, remains resolute, prioritizing its moral and strategic commitments. Sheikh also highlighted improving Pakistan-U.S. relations, noting new opportunities in trade and technology. He referenced Pakistan’s abundant electricity reserves as a potential asset for cryptocurrency mining, as reported by Dunya News.

This reflects Pakistan’s broader focus on economic modernization. The recent approval of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) to oversee digital currencies signals a forward-looking approach to global financial markets.

Pakistan’s firm position on Israel resonates domestically, where public sentiment strongly supports Palestine. “Our policy is consistent with the people’s will,” Sheikh told attendees, reinforcing national unity on the issue. As global pressures shift, Pakistan’s nuclear deterrence and diplomatic leverage allow it to maintain its independent course. The envoy’s clarity underscores Pakistan’s commitment to principle over expediency—navigating a complex geopolitical landscape with confidence and resolve.