Dar calls for peace in Gaza with justice from Israel

Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), emphasizing that a durable peace in Gaza is impossible without justice and accountability. His remarks came just hours before Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was set to participate in an international summit on Gaza held in Washington.

Addressing the council, Dar reiterated Islamabad’s firm stance that any lasting settlement must be underpinned by international law and respect for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. “There can be no sustainable peace without justice, no stability without accountability, and no solution without self-determination,” he declared emphatically.

Pakistan reaffirmed its steadfast support for a two-state resolution in the region, announcing its active participation in a new diplomatic initiative aimed at advancing that objective. Dar underscored Islamabad’s commitment to pursuing ongoing efforts anchored in international law and the United Nations Charter, describing sustained diplomacy as the sole viable path to achieving lasting peace.

The Deputy Prime Minister also articulated Pakistan’s solidarity with Palestinian aspirations for dignity, freedom, and self-determination. “We stand by their legitimate pursuit,” he stated.

Earlier, a joint statement from 85 countries had been circulated by the Palestinian mission to the United Nations, urging Israel to reverse annexation measures in the occupied West Bank. Similarly, the European Union, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and Arab League condemned Israeli actions for registering and settling land ownership across parts of the territory.

Dar confirmed Pakistan’s participation in the inaugural meeting of President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” in Washington. He outlined that Islamabad was willing to support multiple peace initiatives under President Trump’s plan, including the Board of Peace, and other international forums focused on a negotiated settlement.

Observers have expressed concerns about the objectives and potential outcomes of this new body. The White House has announced that more than 20 countries will attend the meeting in Washington, where President Trump is expected to announce pledges exceeding $5 billion for reconstruction and humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

The Italian Institute for International Political Studies (IIPI) noted that while member states are expected to commit around $5 billion collectively, United Nations estimates place Gaza’s reconstruction needs at approximately $70 billion. The think tank also reported potential discussions on deploying international stabilisation forces in Gaza, with participating countries expected to clarify their roles.

Several regional states including Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Turkey, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait have confirmed attendance, alongside Israel. Indonesia has indicated its readiness to contribute up to 8,000 troops by June if needed for such efforts.

The new body, while promising in intent, remains uncertain about achieving concrete peace goals amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.