Pakistani Official’s UN Presence Fuels Debate Over Israel Stance and Role

The presence of a woman within the Pakistani delegation at the United Nations has sparked considerable controversy. She was observed seated behind Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, leading to questions about her role and selection. The individual is Shama Junejo, a columnist and social media activist. The controversy intensified following the dissemination of images of Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s speech at a UN Security Council session. The images showed Junejo seated directly behind him. Junejo asserts that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif included her as an advisor to the delegation. Further controversy was generated by the revelation of Junejo’s social media posts, which expressed support for Israel. This stance is at odds with Pakistan’s established pro-Palestinian position. Social media users questioned the rationale behind including someone with pro-Israel views in the Pakistani delegation. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that only the Foreign Office could explain Junejo’s presence. The Foreign Office clarified that she was not part of the official delegation. The Foreign Office clarified that Junejo was not listed on the official Letter of Credence for the 80th UNGA session, signed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. Khawaja Asif expressed surprise and concern about the inclusion of individuals in the delegation who were later disavowed. He also denied that Junejo wrote Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s speech for the 80th UN General Assembly. Junejo stated she had been working for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for months. Junejo stated that the PM included her in the UN delegation as an advisor. She stated her policy briefs, advice, and suggestions made during India-Pakistan tensions are documented. She claimed to have been tasked with writing the Prime Minister’s UN speech. She stated that she was given a security pass. She claimed to have worked with the team and was present for meetings. Junejo claimed she sat with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar behind the Prime Minister at a climate conference. Junejo questioned Khawaja Asif’s motives and agenda in making such statements. She said the Prime Minister should address the matter, as it challenges his authority, and blamed Asif and the Foreign Office for embarrassing Pakistan internationally.