Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the United States early Thursday to take part in an important meeting of the “Board of Peace” on Gaza, an initiative launched by US President Donald Trump.
The meeting will be held in Washington on February 19 and is expected to include representatives from around 20 countries. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will also join the session. PM Shehbaz is scheduled to stay in the US until February 20 and is likely to hold meetings with American officials during his visit.
Before making any commitment, Pakistan wants clear assurances from the United States regarding the proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza.
According to sources, Pakistan is ready to send troops, but only under strict conditions. The deployment must be purely for peacekeeping purposes and not involve disarming Hamas.
A senior source close to the Prime Minister stated that Pakistan’s troops would only participate in a peace mission. “We will not take part in any operation aimed at disarming Hamas,” the source clarified.
President Donald Trump, who will lead the meeting, is expected to introduce a multi-billion-dollar reconstruction plan for Gaza. The plan may also include proposals for a United Nations-authorised stabilisation force to help restore peace and stability in the region.
Pakistan is seeking details about the ISF’s objectives, legal authority, and command structure before making a final decision.
Pakistan’s Continued Support for Peace Efforts
Earlier, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that Pakistan would continue supporting international efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in Gaza in line with United Nations resolutions.
Pakistan has also expressed its willingness to play a constructive role in global peace initiatives related to Palestine.
President Trump launched the “Board of Peace” during the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year. The initiative aims to secure a long-term ceasefire in Gaza and support reconstruction and economic recovery.
Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan reportedly calls for a force from Muslim-majority countries to oversee the rebuilding process. Washington has encouraged Pakistan to join this effort.
Analysts believe Pakistan’s experienced military could play a valuable role in such a multinational force. However, Pakistan has clearly stated that its participation would only be limited to peacekeeping responsibilities and not demilitarisation operations.
