Pakistan Weighs Invitation to US-Led Gaza Peace Board

The United States has announced the formation of a ‘Peace Board’ for Gaza and has invited several countries, including Pakistan, to join. The initiative is part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza reconstruction plan, which was endorsed by the United Nations Security Council on November 17, 2025.

Alongside the board, the plan includes an International Stabilization Force to assist Israel, Egypt, and newly trained Palestinian police in securing borders and disarming anti-state groups, including Hamas.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed receipt of the invitation but has not yet made a decision. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that the government will consider the matter only after consultations and a briefing to the federal cabinet. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized that Pakistan will only participate in the stabilization force if it does not involve disarming Hamas, reflecting Islamabad’s cautious stance.

Diplomatic Significance

Former diplomats see Pakistan’s invitation as a diplomatic achievement. Masood Khan, Pakistan’s former ambassador to the UN, said it reflects Pakistan’s role in securing the ceasefire in Gaza alongside seven other Islamic countries. However, he noted that key decisions in the board will be made by the US President and his top officials, while advisory members like Pakistan will have limited influence.

Potential Challenges

Some experts warn that joining the board could carry risks. Former ambassador Ashraf Jahangir Qazi suggested that mandatory financial contributions could strain Pakistan’s economy and that the board’s actions may conflict with international law. Analysts also note Pakistan’s delicate position, as it has not recognized Israel and will likely focus on a diplomatic rather than military role in Gaza reconstruction.

Regional Coordination

Pakistan is expected to consult with Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, before taking any decisions. Experts say this approach allows Pakistan to maintain influence in Gaza reconstruction while avoiding direct military involvement, preserving its neutral position and supporting a two-state solution.

Overall, Pakistan’s potential role in the Gaza Peace Board is expected to be primarily diplomatic, reflecting careful balancing between regional influence, international expectations, and national policy. Islamabad’s final decision is pending consultations and internal deliberations.

Saudi Supports US-Led Gaza Peace Board

The Saudi cabinet welcomed the second phase of the peace plan for the Gaza Strip and supported Donald Trump’s peace board.

The Saudi cabinet meeting was chaired by King Salman bin Abdulaziz, in which ministers stressed the need for implementing the ceasefire in Gaza and humanitarian aid, calling for the return of the Palestinian Authority to the territory and the end of the Israeli occupation.

UAE Accepts Peace Board

United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has also accepted an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join the ‘Board of Peace’.

According to a statement from the UAE Foreign Ministry, ‘United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has accepted an invitation from the US to join the Board of Peace.’

The news agency said that according to the board’s charter, the term of membership of member countries will be a maximum of 3 years, the renewal of which will be subject to the approval of the chairman.