Pakistan’s Shift on Gaza Peace Plan: PM Sharif Commends Trump

Pakistan’s stance on the Gaza peace proposal has shifted dramatically, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressing support for a plan introduced by US President Donald Trump. This change follows initial criticism from Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who had previously indicated that the proposal deviated from a joint plan developed by several Muslim-majority nations. Sharif’s remarks came after a statement from Hamas that he views as a potential breakthrough for a ceasefire.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 14, 2023, Prime Minister Sharif stated, “Alhamdolillah, we are closer to a ceasefire than we have been since this genocide was launched on the Palestinian people.” He extended gratitude to Trump and leaders from nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, and Indonesia, emphasizing the need to capitalize on the current momentum for peace. Sharif added, “The statement issued by Hamas creates a window for a ceasefire and ensuring peace that we must not allow to close again.”

Earlier this week, Trump unveiled a 20-point plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The proposal includes the immediate return of all hostages within 72 hours of a ceasefire and outlines a framework for rebuilding a “New Gaza.” Additionally, it suggests deploying international and Arab forces to oversee Israel’s gradual withdrawal from the region.

The initial response from Pakistan’s leadership was less enthusiastic. On October 13, Dar conveyed to lawmakers that Trump’s plan diverged from the collective proposal put forward by eight Muslim-majority nations during a meeting with the US president on September 22, 2023, at the United Nations General Assembly. “I have made it clear that these 20 points which Trump has made public are not the same as ours. Some changes have been made to the draft we had,” Dar stated.

According to Dar, the original proposal advocated for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a pathway to a just peace based on the two-state solution. In contrast, Trump’s plan suggests a partial pullback of Israeli troops, contingent upon the release of hostages held by Hamas. Furthermore, Dar mentioned that Trump assured Muslim leaders he would prevent any Israeli annexation of the occupied West Bank, which is a significant concern for many in the region.

As the situation evolved, Dar softened his earlier criticism, calling Hamas’ recent response “a welcome step.” He reiterated on X, “This must now result in an immediate ceasefire, end to Palestinian suffering, ensure hostages release, and allow free flow of humanitarian aid. Israel MUST immediately stop its attacks.” He reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and the establishment of a viable State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

This rapid shift in tone from Pakistani leadership highlights the complexities of international diplomacy amid ongoing violence in the region. As discussions continue, the impact on the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains a pressing concern for not only Pakistan but for many nations around the world.