Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has endorsed former U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly announced Gaza peace plan, describing it as a constructive step toward de-escalation and humanitarian relief in the besieged territory. While hailing the initiative, Pakistan emphasized that the ultimate foundation for peace remains the two-state solution — the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The plan, widely described as a 20- or 21-point framework, outlines immediate humanitarian measures, political arrangements for Gaza’s governance, and long-term steps to prevent renewed conflict. Although not all provisions have been publicly disclosed, multiple reports shed light on its key features.
Main Highlights of the Gaza Peace Plan
1. Immediate Ceasefire
Both Israel and Hamas would halt hostilities without delay, ending months of bombardment and civilian casualties. Pakistan welcomed this as the most urgent humanitarian priority.
2. Phased Israeli Withdrawal
The plan proposes a staged pullout of Israeli troops from Gaza, overseen by international monitors. Each phase would allow humanitarian access and reconstruction efforts to take root.
3. Hostage Release Within 48 Hours
All hostages held by Hamas are to be released swiftly, within two days of the plan’s implementation. This measure is seen as a trust-building step.
4. Prisoner Exchange
Israel would release over 1,000 Palestinian detainees, many held without trial. Pakistan has lauded this as a way to address longstanding grievances.
5. Disarmament of Hamas
The plan includes provisions for dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities. Weapons would be collected or neutralized under international supervision.
6. Transitional Administration
A technocratic or international authority would temporarily govern Gaza, ensuring stability until a longer-term political arrangement is agreed.
7. Palestinian Technocrats in Governance
Civil administration would be run by independent Palestinian experts, excluding Hamas from formal leadership but keeping governance local.
8. Exclusion of Hamas from Direct Rule
While members renouncing violence may be granted amnesty, Hamas as an organization would not retain control over Gaza.
9. Amnesty and Safe Passage
Rank-and-file Hamas fighters who disarm could receive pardons or be granted safe passage out of Gaza, reducing the risk of prolonged resistance.
10. No Forced Displacement
The plan explicitly states that no Palestinian will be forced to leave Gaza. Those who voluntarily leave would have the right to return.
11. International Oversight
Third-party monitors, possibly involving Arab and European states, would ensure compliance with ceasefire, withdrawal, and governance provisions.
12. Humanitarian Aid Flow
Aid corridors and safe zones would be established, guaranteeing uninterrupted food, fuel, and medical deliveries.
13. Reconstruction of Gaza
A comprehensive reconstruction program would be financed by Arab countries, international donors, and multilateral institutions, with strict oversight to prevent corruption.
14. Multinational Security Force
A stabilization mission or peacekeeping force would secure the territory during the transitional phase, preventing lawlessness.
15. Gaza Under Palestinian Authority in Future
In the longer term, Gaza would be reintegrated under a reformed Palestinian Authority, paving the way for unified Palestinian governance.
16. Monitoring of Weapons Infrastructure
Special provisions call for the dismantling of tunnels, missile launch sites, and Hamas’ arsenal to prevent renewed fighting.
17. Humanitarian Corridors
Designated safe passages would be opened for civilians to access aid, healthcare, and evacuation if needed.
18. Donor-Funded Development Budget
Multi-year budgets for rebuilding housing, schools, and infrastructure would be set up under international management.
19. Prevention of Annexation
The plan stresses that Israel will not annex Gaza or reoccupy it permanently, aiming to safeguard Palestinian sovereignty.
20. Partial Implementation if Hamas Rejects
Reports suggest that even if Hamas resists, the plan could be rolled out in “terror-free areas” as a pressure strategy to isolate rejectionists.
Pakistan’s Response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Trump’s “leadership” in presenting a framework that addresses immediate suffering and long-term political questions. He also acknowledged the role of U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in negotiations.
However, Shehbaz made clear that Pakistan views this plan as only a starting point. He reaffirmed that the two-state solution — based on pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as Palestine’s capital — remains the “only key to enduring peace, stability, and justice” in the Middle East.
Broader Context
The Gaza Strip is facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent memory, with thousands displaced and infrastructure in ruins. While the peace plan offers urgent relief measures, its success hinges on acceptance by both Israel and Palestinian factions — a prospect clouded by mistrust and political divisions.
For Pakistan, backing the initiative reflects its pragmatic commitment to peacebuilding, but its insistence on a two-state solution underscores a principled stance in line with international law and longstanding Muslim world consensus.
The 20-point Gaza peace plan represents the most ambitious U.S.-backed initiative in years. By supporting it while holding firmly to the two-state vision, Pakistan has signaled that it seeks both immediate de-escalation and long-term justice for the Palestinian people. The coming weeks will determine whether the plan moves from paper to practice — and whether it can genuinely alter the trajectory of one of the world’s longest-running conflicts.
