Pakistan has made it clear that Israel’s presence or absence in the newly formed Peace Board does not concern Islamabad, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attends its inaugural session in Washington at the invitation of US President Donald Trump.
The statement came during the weekly media briefing by Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi, who outlined Pakistan’s position on regional peace efforts and international stabilization proposals.
The spokesperson confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is attending the first meeting of the Peace Board in Washington.
During his three-day official visit to the United States, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet senior US officials and other heads of state participating in the summit. The visit is expected to include discussions on Pakistan-US bilateral relations as well as broader global issues.
Position on international stabilization force
Addressing questions about a potential International Stabilization Force, Andrabi said Pakistan cannot take a final decision until the force’s mandate is clearly defined.
He emphasized that Pakistan could contribute troops strictly for peacekeeping purposes. “Pakistan can provide its army for peace, not to disarm Hamas,” he said, describing this as a clear red line.
Stance on Israel’s participation
Responding to queries about Israel’s possible role in the Peace Board, the spokesperson said it does not matter to Pakistan whether Israel is included.
He also dismissed remarks attributed to former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, stating that they were based on rumors and did not merit a response.
The Foreign Office reiterated Pakistan’s continued diplomatic and moral support for the people of Kashmir. Andrabi affirmed that Islamabad would maintain its longstanding position on the issue.
