Islamabad – Pakistan is prepared to deploy to the Gaza Strip solely for peacekeeping operations, categorically ruling out any involvement in disarming Hamas, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Dar emphasized the clear consensus within Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership on this matter. “We will not go to disarm Hamas,” he stated, clarifying that Pakistan’s role would be limited to fostering peace, not enforcing it.
Dar accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement signed in Sharm el-Sheikh last October, expressing strong condemnation of these actions. He asserted that the 20 points outlined in former US President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza remain unfulfilled.
“Since the ceasefire came into effect on October 10th, Israel has continued its violations, undermining the agreement that was meant to end the devastating war,” Dar said. He added that Pakistan is deeply concerned about the ongoing situation.
Reports indicate that there have been approximately 738 violations since the ceasefire began, resulting in the deaths of 410 Palestinians and injuries to 1134, according to official figures. The ceasefire brought an end to a two-year period of intense conflict that began on October 7, 2023. This conflict, supported by the United States, reportedly led to around 71,000 Palestinian fatalities and over 171,000 injuries. The widespread destruction impacted an estimated 90% of civilian infrastructure, with the United Nations estimating reconstruction costs at around $70 billion.
Pakistan continues to call for a lasting and just resolution to the conflict, based on international law and relevant UN resolutions, and is ready to play a constructive role in achieving a peaceful and stable future for Gaza.
