On September 30, US President Donald Trump announced that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir back his initiative to resolve the Gaza conflict. Trump disclosed this support during a press conference in the White House.
While standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump detailed the launch of his ‘Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict.’ He highlighted the involvement of leaders from various nations in shaping this plan, stating, “This afternoon after extensive consultation, I am formally releasing our principles for peace.”
Trump acknowledged significant contributions from both Arab and Muslim nations, expressing gratitude to many world leaders, including those from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. He remarked, “The King is a phenomenal person,” praising their input on the proposal.
The President elaborated on the international dialogue surrounding Gaza. He stated, “These are the people that we’ve been dealing with, very much involved in this negotiation,” highlighting the complexity and importance of collaboration.
Trump emphasized that the heads of state involved have provided valuable insights on what is acceptable to them. “My meetings and dialogue have included Saudi Arabia, the Emir of Qatar, and the President of Indonesia,” he said, showcasing a coalition effort.
Sharif and Munir, he noted, provided their backing, underscoring their commitment. “They just put out a statement supporting this plan one hundred percent,” Trump added, reflecting a strong alliance.
The President’s Gaza plan outlines a vision for a deradicalized, terror-free zone in Gaza. It guarantees that Gaza will not pose a threat to its neighbours, with a significant focus on redevelopment. “If both sides agree to this proposal, the war will immediately end,” Trump insisted.
His announcement included a detailed roadmap. Israeli forces will withdraw to predetermined lines in preparation for a hostages release, while halting all military operations. The plan stipulates a complete cessation of military actions until conditions for a staged withdrawal are met.
Significantly, the agreement includes provisions for the return of all hostages—alive and deceased—within a strict 72-hour period following Israel’s acceptance of the proposal. Additionally, the plan requires Israel to release both life-sentence prisoners and individuals detained post-October 7, as part of the peace-building process.
In response to the announcement, foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Qatar, and Egypt issued a joint statement. They praised Trump’s leadership and his earnest efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict, reflecting a unified regional sentiment.
The joint statement welcomed the proposal for reconstruction in Gaza and preventing further displacement of Palestinians. It reaffirmed the international commitment to work towards a solution that ensures peace, security, and stability in the region.
Sharif and Munir had engaged with Trump earlier during their visit to the UN General Assembly. Their alliance was established during their first meeting in the White House before the UN session, enhancing diplomatic ties.
Trump’s outreach to Pakistan strengthens cooperation in the ongoing situation in Gaza, presenting a path where both humanitarian needs and broader security concerns are addressed. The commitment from these leaders signals a concerted regional effort to restore peace.
Following the meeting in New York, Trump also hosted Munir for lunch earlier this summer, emphasizing the growing diplomatic relationship between the United States and Pakistan during his presidency.
The collaboration among these nations illustrates a potential shift towards a more cooperative international approach in resolving the Gaza conflict.
