ISTANBUL

Pakistan warned on Sunday that Islamophobia "exacerbates" existing tensions and conflicts, emphasizing the global community's commitment to advancing international efforts to combat Islamophobia.

“In recent years, the alarming rise in Islamophobia has manifested in deeply troubling incidents across many parts of the world, including the desecration of the Holy Quran, attacks on women for wearing the hijab, vandalism of mosques, religious profiling, and the open expression of anti-Muslim hatred in public discourse and media,” Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said in a statement, marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

Islamophobia “exacerbates existing tensions and conflicts, creating a vicious cycle that threatens international peace and security,” he added.

Pakistan stands in solidarity with Muslims worldwide and "reaffirms our unwavering commitment to combating prejudice, discrimination, hostility, and violence directed against Muslims,” the statement said, stressing commitment to advancing international efforts to counter Islamophobia.

Islamabad urged the international community to condemn Islamophobia and address “the structural conditions that allow it to flourish,” as well as to promote mutual respect, dialogue, and understanding among communities and to uphold values such as tolerance, dignity, and peaceful coexistence.

The UN General Assembly adopted by consensus in 2022 a resolution declaring March 15 as International Day to Combat Islamophobia.