Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced that a peace force will be deployed in Palestine under an international peace plan, with Pakistan’s participation described as a matter of national pride.
The composition of Pakistan’s contingent in the law enforcement force will be determined by the country’s leadership.
At a press conference in Islamabad, Dar revealed that eight countries had collaborated intensively on the agreement aimed at securing peace in Gaza. He said the majority of the personnel in the proposed peacekeeping force would be Palestinians.
Dar said that Palestinians would also be represented in the technocratic government being established in the region. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is to serve as global peace envoy. Indonesia has offered 26,000 personnel to the peacekeeping force, while the decision on Pakistan’s contribution will be made by its leadership.
He drew a distinction between former US President Trump’s 20-point declaration and the collective statement issued by eight Muslim countries. According to Dar, Palestinian authorities welcomed the joint efforts of the eight states. A written draft was initially prepared by the United States, which was later amended by Islamic countries. Dar said that within 24 hours, the group proposed amendments to the US draft, replacing the idea of an American-led peacekeeping force with an independent force to ensure peace in Gaza.
The deputy prime minister explained that the group of Muslim countries unanimously agreed that the West Bank and Gaza must remain united, regardless of Israel’s stance. The United States was engaged in the process because of its influence, while no direct negotiations were held with Israel. Dar said the group agreed to engage with the party holding actual power.
He added that the Saudi Foreign Minister had maintained regular contact throughout the process. The eight nations remain committed to resolving the Palestinian issue on the basis of pre-1967 borders. Although Hamas has not publicly commented, Palestinian authorities have given a positive response. Dar said five Arab nations had assured that Hamas would not oppose the agreement.
He confirmed that all eight countries, in coordination with the United States, shared the objective of securing a ceasefire in Gaza. The Palestinian issue was discussed with President Trump, and constructive dialogue took place regarding an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Dar criticised those opposing the peace initiative, questioning whether critics preferred continued violence. He said innocent Palestinians continued to suffer in Gaza and urged all parties to avoid politicising the issue.
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