Shehbaz Sharif Backs Trump’s Gaza Plan, Sparks Backlash
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed support for former U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace proposal, saying it could help bring lasting peace through a two-state solution. His endorsement triggered strong backlash within Pakistan, where many viewed it as a departure from Islamabad’s traditional stance on Palestine.
Shortly after Sharif’s comments, Deputy PM Ishaq Dar distanced himself from the endorsement, stating “this is not our document” to clarify that Pakistan had not formally adopted the plan. The draft proposal, released by Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calls for a ceasefire, release of hostages, disarmament of Hamas, and a transitional administration in Gaza.
Critics in Pakistan accused Sharif of undermining national and regional solidarity with Palestinians. On social media and in political forums, his critics argued the endorsement gave legitimacy to Israel’s position and betrayed Pakistan’s historical support for Palestine. Opposition parties also seized on the issue, demanding explanations from the government about how it would reconcile the endorsement with Pakistan’s foreign policy.
For now, Pakistan’s official position remains uncertain: despite Sharif’s praise, the government has not officially endorsed the Trump plan, and statements from senior ministers suggest internal disagreement. The controversy reflects tensions in Pakistan over balancing international diplomacy with domestic and ideological expectations.
