US President Donald Trump has announced that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir support his plan to end the Gaza conflict. This statement came during a press briefing on September 30 in Washington. Trump detailed his proposal for peace, crediting leaders across the globe for their involvement in formulating this initiative.
While announcing the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump expressed esteem for leaders in the region. “These leaders have been very much involved in this negotiation, giving us valuable ideas as we work towards a resolution,” he stated.
During the joint news conference, Trump pointed out the significance of collaboration with several nations, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. He remarked, “The King of Saudi Arabia is a phenomenal person, and the Emir of Qatar is incredible, among many others who contributed to our discussions on Gaza.”
Trump’s announcement comes alongside his plan, which he described as a Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict. The proposal aims to establish Gaza as a “deradicalised terror-free zone.” The initiative also includes commitments from Israel, such as the withdrawal of its military forces and the release of hostages.
Trump further elaborated that “if both sides agree to this proposal, the war will immediately end.” He emphasized the importance of suspending military operations while hostages are being released and ensuring that no military activity continues during this phase.
The outlined plan details key steps, including releasing all hostages within 72 hours post-acceptance of the agreement, as well as provisions for returning deceased Gazans against the remains of Israeli hostages.
In response to Trump’s announcement, a coalition of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Pakistan, Indonesia, Türkiye, Qatar, and Egypt expressed their support. They released a joint statement commending Trump’s leadership and sincerity in addressing the Gaza conflict.
The leaders welcomed Trump’s intent to prevent the annexation of the West Bank, proclaiming their readiness to engage positively with the United States to conclude an agreement that promises security for the region.
The collaborative statement highlighted their commitment to deliver humanitarian aid unilaterally and to establish peace founded on the two-state solution, integrating Gaza with the West Bank into a unified Palestinian state.
Sharif’s involvement in this initiative is rooted in his recent discussions with Trump during the high-level UN General Assembly session in New York. After meeting with Trump and Munir at the White House, Sharif assured that Pakistan backs the proposed plan entirely.
Earlier this summer, Trump hosted Munir for lunch, underscoring the growing diplomatic relationship. With both leaders meeting Trump previously at the UNGA, their alignment represents a significant shift in regional diplomatic efforts regarding Gaza.
As these discussions unfold, the attention remains on whether Trump’s peace plan will resonate with other international stakeholders, and consequently, if it will pave the way for lasting stability in the volatile region.
