Pakistan’s Position on Gaza
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar told the National Assembly on Friday that Pakistan remains firmly committed to the Palestinian cause. He said the 20-point peace plan, presented by the US and supported by eight Muslim states, is the only realistic way to stop the Gaza war. Dar stressed that the immediate priority is ending the bloodshed and protecting civilians.
Details of the Peace Deal
Dar explained that Pakistan, along with Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, Qatar, Indonesia, and Jordan, received the plan during meetings convened in Doha. Pakistan added its own proposals and shared them with Washington. The deal calls for a ceasefire, civilian protection, reconstruction of Gaza, and the deployment of an international peacekeeping force. Indonesia has already pledged 20,000 troops, while Pakistan is still considering its role.
Clarifying Pakistan’s Stance
The minister rejected claims that Pakistan is softening its stance on Israel. He said Islamabad will never recognize Israel and continues to support a two-state solution on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as the Palestinian capital. Dar argued that past failures by the UN and OIC show why working with Washington is essential. He added that Pakistan is negotiating the release of citizens detained by Israeli forces, including JI leader Mushtaq Ahmad, who was arrested while leading the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Defense Pact With Saudi Arabia
Dar also highlighted the newly signed Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement with Saudi Arabia. He described it as a historic milestone, stressing that any attack on one country will be treated as aggression against both. He noted that other states have shown interest in joining, which could eventually lead to a NATO-like alliance in the Muslim world.
