Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar firmly stated that Pakistan’s 20-point Gaza peace draft differs from the plan announced by US President Donald Trump.
During a National Assembly session, Dar emphasised, “The 20-point plan made public by President Trump is not ours. Changes were made to our draft.” This clarification addresses speculation amid international discussions on Gaza’s crisis.
The original draft emerged from a UN General Assembly meeting attended by leaders from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, and Indonesia. It prioritises ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and Palestinian self-determination. However, Trump’s version, released on September 29, includes unique elements, such as a “Board of Peace” chaired by him and potential international stabilisation forces.
Pakistan’s proposal focuses on immediate aid and a two-state solution. It avoids troop deployments and stresses Palestinian agency. Trump’s plan, welcomed by PM Shehbaz Sharif, envisions a technocratic Palestinian committee under international oversight. It also offers amnesty for peaceful Hamas members and scaled-up aid post-hostage release.
Read: Trump Announces Netanyahu Backs U.S. Gaza Peace Plan for Ceasefire
Dar confirmed that Pakistan had engaged with Trump’s team, but noted that not all suggestions were adopted. For instance, Pakistan opposes troop contributions to Gaza’s proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF), favouring an independent Palestinian government of technocrats.
The plans respond to Gaza’s humanitarian emergency, with over 44,000 deaths since October 2023. Sharif praised Trump’s initiative for stability, but Dar’s remarks highlight Pakistan’s nuanced stance. Eight Muslim nations, including Pakistan, issued a joint statement welcoming “sincere efforts” for a ceasefire and reconstruction.
