Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar clarified that the 20-point Gaza peace plan released by US President Donald Trump was not Pakistan’s original proposal, but stressed that there is no room for politicking on the issue.
Pakistan’s Position on the Gaza Peace Plan
Speaking in the National Assembly, Dar explained that the US-modified plan differed from Pakistan’s draft. He stated, “Changes were made to our original draft. I have the record.” Despite this, he emphasized that the end goal is practical resolution, not political debate.
Eight Muslim and Arab countries – Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt – met with Trump on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly (UNGA) to discuss measures for ending the Israeli bombardment of Gaza.
Key Discussions and Negotiations
On September 29, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the 20-point plan. Initially, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the plan, but Dar later clarified that the plan would not be acceptable without amendments proposed by the eight countries.
Dar detailed that preparatory meetings of foreign ministers were held in New York, organized by Qatar’s embassy, to discuss the situation in Gaza. The ministers reviewed Trump’s 20-point proposal, debated changes, and exchanged hard copies of the draft over 24 hours.
Ultimately, a counter-draft prepared by the eight countries was sent to the US. Dar confirmed that Trump and the Saudi foreign minister agreed to urgent points, while some issues required further discussion. A joint statement was finalized to prevent further Israeli attacks.
Pakistan’s Policy on Palestine
Dar reaffirmed that Pakistan’s stance on Palestine remains unchanged, following the principles of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah. He reiterated Pakistan’s demand for an independent Palestinian state with Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital.
Gaza Flotilla Update
Dar also addressed Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which included former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan. Reports indicate Israel captured 22 vessels and detained several activists. Pakistan is working with an influential European country to secure the release of detained citizens.
Dar concluded by emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to diplomatic engagement to protect its citizens and resolve the Gaza crisis effectively.
