PM Sharif Endorses US Proposal for Gaza Peace

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday voiced his support for the US President Donald Trump’s initiative seeking to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza. He stated that a sustained peace between the Palestinian people and Israel is vital for promoting regional stability and economic advancement.

In a statement posted on X, the Prime Minister conveyed his “belief that a lasting peace between the Palestinian people and Israel is crucial for fostering political stability and economic prosperity in the region.”

Furthermore, he expressed his “confidence that President Trump stands ready to provide all necessary assistance to ensure that this critical and urgent understanding becomes a reality.”

PM Shehbaz lauded President Trump’s leadership and commended the efforts of US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in striving for a resolution to the conflict, noting that he “applauds President Trump’s leadership and the significant role played by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in working towards ending this war.”

The Prime Minister reaffirmed his backing for a two-state solution, asserting that “the implementation of the two-state proposal is essential for securing enduring peace in the region.”

Earlier on Sunday, PM Shehbaz informed reporters about the encouraging nature of the recent meeting in New York between President Trump and leaders from eight Arab-Islamic nations. He conveyed his optimism that the discussions would yield a favorable outcome regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

Last week, the US President engaged with prominent Arab and Muslim leaders at the United Nations, subsequently announcing on social media on Sunday that “All are on board for something special, first time ever.”

However, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has presented minimal cause for optimism, pledging in a resolute address to the UN on Friday to “finish the job” against Hamas and rejecting the notion of Palestinian statehood – which has recently been recognized by several Western countries.

US President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding the prospects of a Gaza agreement on Monday as he hosted Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, urging the Israeli prime minister to embrace his peace proposal.

According to reports from The Times of Israel and US news outlet Axios, Trump’s plan entails an immediate cessation of hostilities, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the liberation of hostages within a 48-hour timeframe.

Subsequently, Israel would release over 1,000 Palestinian detainees, including individuals serving life sentences.

In a departure from his typical stance as a staunch ally of Netanyahu, the US President has displayed increasing indications of discontent ahead of the Israeli premier’s fourth visit to the White House since Trump’s return to office.

Netanyahu’s coalition government relies on the support of far-right ministers who are opposed to a peace settlement.

Numerous challenges remain in the pursuit of a resolution.

Both Israel and the Arab nations are still disputing the precise language of crucial elements of the peace accord, including the function of any international force and the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority in post-conflict Gaza.

The offensive conducted by Israel has resulted in the deaths of 66,055 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, as per figures provided by the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory, which the United Nations deems reliable.

— Additional input from AFP