Iranian envoy makes veiled criticism of US resolution on Pakistan’s elections, calls it ‘modern ignorance’

The still image taken from the live stream of the US House of Representatives on June 26, 2024, shows the final results of the vote on a resolution calling for a "full and independent investigation of claims of interference or irregularities in Pakistan’s February 2024 election." (US House of Representatives)
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Updated 30 June 2024
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Iranian envoy makes veiled criticism of US resolution on Pakistan’s elections, calls it ‘modern ignorance’

  • US House of Representatives called for impartial probe into the rigging allegations that followed Pakistan’s February 8 elections
  • Iranian envoy to Pakistan criticizes the US and describes the development as ‘extortion under the guise of supporting democracy’

ISLAMABAD: Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, made a veiled reference on Saturday to a resolution passed by the United States House of Representatives, criticizing it for demanding an impartial probe into the rigging allegations that followed Pakistan’s February 8 elections and calling it “modern ignorance.”
The resolution, overwhelmingly adopted by US lawmakers this week, expressed concern over the state of democracy in Pakistan and called for freedom of media and speech. It also condemned attempts to “suppress” the participation of people in their democracy, asking the government to uphold their human, civil, and political rights.
Pakistan sharply reacted to the development, describing it as “unsolicited” advice and demanding that bilateral relations with the US be based on the principles of “mutual respect and non-interference.”
“Among wonders of modern ignorance: a country prevents ceasefire by veto, supports #GenocideinGaza by providing lethal weapons to Zionist regime, but Congress passes a resolution questioning election in an independent UN member,” Ambassador Moghadam wrote in a social media post, calling it “extortion under the guise of supporting democracy.”

Iran is among the nations that have criticized the United States for its support of Israel’s actions in Gaza, particularly highlighting the US use of its veto power in the United Nations Security Council.
Additionally, Iran has issued a stern warning to Israel, indicating that any attack on Lebanon could lead to a “devastating” war.

 


Pakistan U19 take on Afghanistan in tri-series in Zimbabwe

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Pakistan U19 take on Afghanistan in tri-series in Zimbabwe

  • Pakistan enter the tournament as U19 Asia Cup champions after beating India by 191 runs in Dubai
  • The tri-series is seen as key preparation for next month’s U19 World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s under-19 cricket team begin today their tri-series campaign against Afghanistan in Harare, using the tournament as a key preparation for the next month’s U19 World Cup co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Pakistan, the reigning ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup champions, are competing in the 50-over tri-series alongside Afghanistan and hosts Zimbabwe, with each team playing the others twice before the final on Jan. 6.

Pakistan won the eight-team Asia Cup in Dubai earlier this month, beating India by 191 runs in the final, and will play a minimum of four matches in the tri-series, starting at Harare Sports Club on Saturday.

“The Asia Cup was a good win for us and the players showed great morale and intensity,” Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf was quoted as saying by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

“The tri-series is very important for the players and will help us find the right combinations ahead of the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup.”

Pakistan will face Zimbabwe on Dec. 29 before meeting Afghanistan again on Jan. 2, followed by a second match against the hosts on Jan. 4. Matches will be played across venues in Harare, including Harare Sports Club, Prince Edward School and Sunrise Sports Club.

The tri-series is being seen as an important warm-up ahead of the U19 World Cup, which will be held from Jan. 15 to Feb. 6. Pakistan are placed in Group C and will play all their group-stage matches in Harare.

“The conditions here are similar and will be beneficial for our World Cup preparations,” Yousaf said. “Both teams in the tournament are strong and competitive and we respect every opposition as we look forward to a competitive event.”

Pakistan will open their World Cup campaign against England on Jan. 16, followed by matches against Scotland and Zimbabwe, with the Super Six stage beginning on Jan. 25 and the final scheduled for Feb. 6 at Harare Sports Club.