Pakistan to join US-led 'Board of Peace' for Gaza ceasefire plan

Pakistan has announced its decision to join the U.S.-initiated "Board of Peace" aimed at overseeing the implementation of a ceasefire and peace plan for Gaza. The move signals Pakistan's engagement in the international diplomatic effort following a devastating conflict that has killed tens of thousands.

Official acceptance and stated goals

In a statement released on Wednesday, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry confirmed the acceptance of an invitation extended by President Donald Trump to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The ministry framed Pakistan's participation as part of its "ongoing efforts to support the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan under the framework of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803." It expressed hope that the board would facilitate "concrete steps" toward a lasting ceasefire, scaled-up humanitarian assistance, and the reconstruction of the besieged Gaza Strip.

Structure and timing of the international board

The White House announced the formation of the Board of Peace last week alongside other transitional bodies, including a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. Its creation coincides with the launch of the second phase of a ceasefire agreement that halted intense hostilities. The war, which began in October 2023, has resulted in catastrophic casualties, with over 71,000 Palestinians killed and 171,000 injured, according to health authorities in Gaza.

Broadening international membership

Pakistan is not the only nation invited to join the nascent diplomatic framework. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet also confirmed via social media that he received an invitation from Trump to become a "Founding Member State." Reports indicate that several other Asia-Pacific nations, including China, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, and Singapore, have been asked to participate. This broadening membership suggests an attempt to create a geographically diverse coalition to lend legitimacy and operational support to the post-conflict process in Gaza, a region of deep concern for Muslim-majority nations like Pakistan and Türkiye.