Pakistan and Arab-Islamic Nations Unite to Join Gaza Board of Peace
In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan has aligned with seven other Arab and Islamic countries to formally join the Gaza Board of Peace. This collective decision was announced on Wednesday, marking a unified stance towards resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Joint Statement and International Support
The Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar issued a joint statement welcoming the invitation from US President Donald J. Trump. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, these nations have reiterated their strong support for the peace efforts spearheaded by President Trump.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to backing the implementation of the Board of Peace's mission as a transitional administration. This initiative is outlined in the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, which has been endorsed by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803.
Objectives and Regional Impact
The primary goals of this move include:
- Consolidating a permanent ceasefire in Gaza
- Supporting the reconstruction efforts in the war-torn region
- Advancing a just and lasting peace based on Palestinian rights to self-determination and statehood under international law
By joining the Board of Peace, these countries aim to pave the way for enhanced security and stability across the region, benefiting all nations and peoples involved.
Legal Procedures and Diplomatic Coordination
Each participating country will sign the joining documents in accordance with their respective legal frameworks and necessary procedures. This step ensures that the involvement is formalized and recognized at both national and international levels.
In a related development, the Group of Eight Arab-Islamic countries jointly publicized their decision. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar emphasized Pakistan's ongoing collaboration with brotherly Arab-Islamic nations. In a post on social media platform X, Dar stated that Pakistan will continue working towards lasting peace in Gaza and securing the right to self-determination for Palestinians.
Structure and Function of the Board of Peace
The Gaza Board of Peace operates under a UN Security Council mandate, tasked with overseeing postwar management of Gaza until the end of 2027. While the United States intends to utilize this panel for broader global conflict resolution, it is expected to convene only a few times annually.
A more active body in decision-making regarding Gaza will be the Gaza Executive Board, which was unveiled on Friday. This executive board includes representatives from Turkey, Qatar, the UAE, and the US, highlighting the international cooperation involved in this peace initiative.
Reiteration of Support for Palestinian Rights
In their statement, the Muslim countries reiterated their unwavering support for advancing a just and lasting peace. This peace is firmly grounded in the Palestinian right to self-determination and statehood, in strict accordance with international law. Such efforts are seen as crucial for establishing long-term security and stability throughout the region.
