ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has hailed US President Donald Trump for the agreement that took place between Israel and Hamas on Thursday on a pause in fighting and prisoners’ exchange.
The US president announced Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the “first phase” of his peace plan to pause fighting and release at least some hostages and prisoners, in a major breakthrough in the two-year-old war, AP reported.
The Pakistani prime minister, in a post shared on X, stated that the announcement of the agreement that will bring an end to the genocide in Gaza is “a historic opportunity” to secure lasting peace in the Middle East.
Appreciating the US president’s role in the peace effort, the Pakistani prime minister said that President Trump’s leadership throughout the dialogue and negotiation process reflects his unwavering commitment to world peace.
Arab, Muslim leaders lauded
Sharif also lauded the efforts of Arab and Muslim leaders for their role in the negotiations towards bringing an end to the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.
He said, “The resolute and wise leaders of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye are also to be applauded for their untiring efforts to negotiate a deal.”
The Pakistani prime minister, stressing the need for a permanent end to the conflict, said that “we must all pay tribute to the Palestinian people, who have suffered in an unprecedented manner, one that should never, ever be repeated.”
Provocations at Al Aqsa condemned
On Wednesday, Israel's far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, visited the Al-Aqsa compound in occupied East Jerusalem, which is home to Islam's third-holiest site.
The Pakistani premier, while condemning the visit, said, “I also note with grave concern, and strongly condemn, the recent provocations at Masjid Al Aqsa.”
“The world must hold the occupiers and illegal settlers to account and prevent any further actions that undermine the enormous efforts made by President Trump to reduce tensions and pave the way for lasting peace,” he stressed.
Partner in peace
Sharif further said that Pakistan would continue to work with partners, friends, and the leaders of brotherly nations to ensure that peace, security, and dignity for the Palestinian people were established in accordance with their wishes and UN resolutions.
Foreign minister lauds Trump
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in his post on X welcome the agreement on the first phase of the plan.
He said that “Pakistan welcomes the agreement on the first phase of the Plan, including an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages and prisoners, and unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza.”
Principled support reaffirmed
The foreign minister, while appreciating the efforts of the US president, and Arab and Muslim leaders, said: “We commend President Trump, and Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye for their efforts.”
Dar said, “We hope this will lead to a permanent ceasefire and lasting peace.”
He said, “Pakistan reaffirms its principled support for an independent State of Palestine, based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.”
