Crying More Than the Bereaved?
Qatar-Israel Tensions, Arab League Conference, and Pakistan

We’ve all heard the old saying, “Crying more than the bereaved” — and lately, it seems more relevant than ever, especially when we look at the situation in the Middle East, the politics of the Arab world, and Pakistan’s reactions.
The recent escalation in tensions between Qatar and Israel, the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the Arab League’s emergency summit have once again laid bare the helplessness of the Muslim world. In this complex scenario, the question arises: What should Pakistan’s role be? Should we restrict ourselves to issuing statements, or should we take tangible action? And are the Arab countries even united on this front? These questions are not easy to answer — but they’re certainly worth asking.
Israel’s latest assault on Gaza has sparked outrage across the world. But what has added fuel to the fire is the growing war of words between Israel and Qatar. Qatar, known for its political backing of Hamas, is now openly being accused by Israel of supporting “terrorist organizations.” In response, Qatar has dismissed these claims as political maneuvering.
This isn’t just a bilateral dispute — the shockwaves are being felt across the Arab world, especially in those countries that were cautiously moving toward normalization of ties with Israel. Qatar’s open stance has placed many of them in a difficult position.
The recent emergency summit of the Arab League expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people — but, as usual, failed to produce any meaningful action. Resolutions were passed, condemnations were made, and a commitment to protect Al-Aqsa Mosque was repeated — but practically nothing was done to stop Israel or to offer any real protection to the Palestinians.
This passive response reveals the deep divisions and conflicting political interests within the Arab world. While some nations continue to maintain or develop ties with Israel, others remain stuck in indecision and internal contradictions.
Pakistan has reiterated its traditional stance, voicing strong support for the Palestinian cause and condemning Israeli atrocities. Statements were issued by the Foreign Minister and the Foreign Office. But is that enough? Can Pakistan play a more active diplomatic role in this crisis, or should it limit itself to words and prayers?
Here, we must be realistic. Pakistan is currently going through a serious economic crisis. It must tread carefully in the diplomatic arena. It enjoys deep relations with Qatar, and maintaining a balanced position among Gulf nations is crucial. In such a situation, “raising our voice” and “taking concrete action” are two very different things — and for now, Pakistan is sticking with the former.
It’s also true that, as a nation, we often become overly emotional about matters that are beyond our direct control. We vent our anger on social media, organize protests, but when it comes to issues within our own borders — inflation, education, healthcare, justice — our silence is deafening.
Solidarity with Palestinians is undoubtedly a humanitarian, religious, and moral obligation. But is it not also possible to combine emotion with strategy and wisdom?
The Qatar-Israel tensions, the Arab League’s half-hearted conference, and Pakistan’s cautious approach all point to a single truth: the Muslim world doesn’t need more slogans — it needs united policies and practical strategies.
Pakistan must strike a balance between emotions and realism — supporting Palestine, yes, but also safeguarding its diplomatic and economic interests. Mere statements, tweets, and slogans are no longer enough. If we truly want to be seen as leaders of the “Uma,” we must act like it.
The issue of Palestine is not just about one nation or one region — it’s a test for all of humanity. And it’s a test that cannot be passed through anger alone. It demands wisdom, unity, and real action.
And perhaps, this is the most important lesson the modern Muslim world — and especially Pakistan — needs to learn today.