ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has yet to make a final decision on whether to send troops as part of a proposed peacekeeping force for Gaza. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reassured the public on Tuesday that the country’s stance on Palestine remains clear and unchanged. He emphasized that Pakistan continues to fully support the Palestinian cause.
Decision on Troops Still Pending
“The leadership of Pakistan will make the final decision on troop deployment,” Dar explained, adding that any decision will be based on specific arrangements and must be properly documented through the United Nations. Dar also mentioned that Indonesia had offered 20,000 troops for the peace force, but Pakistan is still considering its role.
Trump’s Peace Plan for Gaza and Pakistan’s Position
His comments came after former U.S. President Donald Trump introduced a 20-point peace plan for Gaza. The plan includes calls for a ceasefire, a swap of hostages, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, and a new government led by international bodies. While the proposal has sparked mixed reactions, Dar pointed out that several countries believe Hamas will accept the terms, and negotiations are ongoing.
Pakistan’s Approach to Israel
Dar made it clear that Pakistan is not engaging directly with Israel on the issue. “We are not negotiating with Israel. If we were, we would do it directly. Our talks have been with the United States, which is managing discussions with Israel,” he said.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Palestinian Rights
Pakistan, along with other nations, is pushing for a resolution that includes a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders. Dar also shared that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif raised the Palestinian issue at the United Nations, stressing Pakistan’s ongoing support.
“We are committed to the Palestinian cause, and our position has not changed,” Dar concluded.
