Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump declared that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir back his comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict “100 per cent.” This announcement came during a news conference on September 30, 2023, as he outlined international collaboration on the issue.
Trump described the backing of these Pakistani leaders as crucial in the ongoing negotiations concerning Gaza. During an event at the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump explained, “After extensive consultation with our friends and partners throughout the region, I’m formally releasing our principles for peace, which people have really liked.”
The President emphasized that the proposed peace principles involved contributions from various nations, thanking leaders from Arab and Muslim countries as well as European allies for their support. He specifically highlighted the importance of collaboration across borders in crafting this strategy.
In his address, Trump acknowledged contributions from countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar, noting their significant involvement. “These are the people that we’ve been dealing with, that have been actually very much involved in this negotiation,” he pointed out, mentioning that these discussions delved into complex issues surrounding the conflict.
Trump’s plan outlines that Gaza should be transformed into a “deradicalised terror-free zone” to safeguard its neighbors. He stated that adherence to this proposal will immediately halt the ongoing conflict as Israeli forces withdraw, with all military operations suspended during negotiations for hostage releases.
The detailed proposal dictates that all hostages, whether alive or deceased, must be returned within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance. Furthermore, it stipulates the release of 250 life sentence prisoners from Israel and 1,700 detained Gazans, particularly women and children, following the return of all hostages.
“For every Israeli hostage whose remains are released, Israel will return the remains of 15 deceased Gazans,” Trump noted, underlining the intricate exchanges involved in the proposed deal.
Following Trump’s announcement, foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Qatar, and Egypt issued a collective statement lauding Trump’s efforts and sincere leadership. They welcomed the proposed plan to rebuild Gaza, ensure the return of displaced Palestinians, and strive for a comprehensive peace.
These ministers affirmed their commitment to work collaboratively with the United States and involved parties toward finalizing the agreement. They seek an implementation that guarantees peace, security, and stability for all regional inhabitants.
Key components of their statement reflect an assurance of unrestricted humanitarian aid to Gaza, upholding the Palestinian right of return, and facilitating a two-state solution that integrates Gaza with the West Bank as a fully sovereign Palestinian state.
Sharif and Munir met with Trump during a visit for the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, showcasing the continuous diplomatic engagement between the United States and Pakistan. Earlier this summer, Trump had also hosted Munir for lunch at the White House. Both leaders expressed their commitment to advancing negotiations that promote peace in the volatile region.
