Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has clarified that the 20-point proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict does not represent Pakistan's stance. Speaking in parliament, Dar emphasized that the plan, which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had previously supported, is not aligned with the draft proposed by a coalition of Muslim-majority countries. "I have made it clear that these 20 points which Trump has made public are not ours. These are not the same as ours. I say that some changes have been made in it, in the draft we had," he stated.
Earlier this week, Dar reiterated in a television interview that the proposal was a U.S. initiative and not drafted by Pakistan. He highlighted that Pakistan's priorities include achieving a ceasefire, stopping bloodshed, facilitating humanitarian aid, and preventing forced displacement.
The Foreign Minister's remarks come amid significant backlash against Sharif for his support of Trump's plan, which aims to end the ongoing conflict and requires the return of all hostages within 72 hours of a ceasefire. Critics in Pakistan have accused Sharif of compromising the country's long-standing position on Palestine, with some social media users claiming he is "pleasing Washington" and undermining Pakistan's support for Palestinians.
On September 30, a joint statement from eight Arab and Muslim nations, including Pakistan, had welcomed Trump's proposals. However, following Hamas's rejection of the plan, Pakistan has distanced itself from it, fearing a negative reaction from the Muslim world. The situation remains fluid as discussions continue regarding the details of the proposal, with Hamas calling for amendments to its clauses. The future of the peace plan now hangs in the balance as negotiations evolve.