Pakistan is considering sending troops to Gaza, as part of a proposed peacekeeping force. The force would support a peace plan announced by US President Donald Trump aiming to end the war between Israel and Hamas. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, confirmed the leadership will decide on the matter. He emphasised that any deployment would be for a peacekeeping role.
The proposal involves creating an independent Palestinian government of technocrats. This government would run Gaza under the supervision of an international body. Armed forces from Muslim nations would support local Palestinian law enforcement. Indonesia has already offered to contribute 20,000 troops.
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A new plan for Gaza
Trump unveiled the 20-point peace plan on Monday. The plan demands Hamas’s complete disarmament and calls for the release of all Israeli captives within 72 hours. In exchange, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners would be freed. Israeli forces would conduct a phased withdrawal from the enclave.
The plan has received broad international support. Leaders from Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and Indonesia issued a joint statement welcoming efforts to end the war. They expressed readiness to help finalise and implement the deal. The goal is a two-state solution that would see Gaza integrated with the West Bank.
The US plan outlines that a “technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee” would govern Gaza temporarily. An international “Board of Peace,” led by Trump, would provide oversight. This board would include former UK Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair. The US has given Hamas a deadline of three to four days to accept the proposal. A rejection would mean the continuation of the war.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, and its army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, have been praised by Trump for their support. Analysts suggest Pakistan’s endorsement is a strategic move that could bring economic relief and greater influence. However, the decision has faced some domestic criticism.
Image: Ishaq Dar said that the idea behind the plan is to ensure peace and stability in Gaza. [Credit: India Today]
