Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called for an immediate end to ceasefire violations by Israel, stressing that peace and stability are essential for Gaza’s reconstruction. Speaking at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington, Sharif highlighted the need for the Palestinian people to have full control over their land and future, in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
Sharif’s visit, at the invitation of former US President Donald Trump, is part of the three-day forum running from February 18–20. He is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and other senior officials. The Board of Peace, established under a UN resolution after the fragile October 2025 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, aims to oversee international stabilization and rebuilding efforts in Gaza.
At the meeting, Trump praised PM Shehbaz and Pakistan’s Chief of Defense Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, recalling his role in averting the May 2025 military confrontation between Pakistan and India. Sharif also noted that lasting peace requires the protection of Palestinian lives, restoration of their rights, and coordinated international efforts for rebuilding.
Pakistan formally joined the Board last month alongside other world leaders, including an eight-nation Muslim bloc, aiming to contribute to Gaza’s governance and safeguard Palestinian political rights. High-level bilateral discussions are also planned on the sidelines.
