US President Donald Trump invites PM Shehbaz Sharif to join the Gaza Board of Peace. The Foreign Office confirmed the invitation on 18 January 2026 in Islamabad. This move advances Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza, devastated by two years of conflict. Pakistan aims to support lasting peace under UN resolutions.
Pakistan’s participation in the Gaza Board of Peace highlights its growing role in Middle East diplomacy. As a key South Asian nation with strong ties to Muslim countries, Islamabad’s involvement could influence regional stability. This aligns with Pakistan’s advocacy for Palestinian rights and humanitarian aid in Gaza.
Details of Gaza Board of Peace
The Gaza Board of Peace forms part of Trump’s Gaza peace plan for Pakistan and other nations. Trump chairs the board himself. He has invited leaders from about 60 countries, including Turkey, Egypt, Argentina, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Britain, Germany, Canada, and Australia.
The board’s charter positions it as an alternative to the United Nations for Gaza oversight. It focuses on economic development and reconstruction in the Palestinian territory. Recent additions include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan joins despite Israel’s opposition to Turkey’s role. Other members are UN Special Coordinator Sigrid Kaag, Israeli-Cypriot billionaire Yakir Gabay, and a UAE minister. A Palestinian technocrat committee, led by former Palestinian Authority deputy minister Ali Shaath, met in Cairo on 17 January 2026. Kushner attended the session.
Shaath’s plan includes clearing war debris into the Mediterranean Sea and rebuilding infrastructure within three years. Analysts note the coming weeks will test the plan’s feasibility in governance, security, and demilitarisation.
Pakistan’s Response to Shehbaz Sharif Gaza Invitation
Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated: “The prime minister of Pakistan has received the invitation from the president of the United States to join the Board of Peace on Gaza.” He added: “Pakistan will remain engaged with international efforts for peace and security in Gaza, leading to a lasting solution to the Palestine issue in accordance with United Nations resolutions.”
This response echoes earlier support from PM Shehbaz Sharif for Trump’s Gaza peace plan for Pakistan. In October 2025, Sharif said: “I welcome President Trump’s 20-point plan to ensure an end to the war in Gaza. I am also convinced that durable peace between the Palestinian people and Israel would be essential in bringing political stability and economic growth to the region.”
Sharif praised Trump’s leadership and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s role. He stressed the two-state solution for lasting peace. Pakistan joined a joint statement with Qatar, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, welcoming Trump’s efforts to end the war and prevent West Bank annexation.
The statement affirmed readiness to engage with the US for peace implementation. It emphasised partnership for regional security and stability.
Background on Gaza Conflict and Trump’s Plan
Gaza has endured over two years of Israeli military operations, starting after Hamas attacks in October 2023. The conflict displaced millions and destroyed infrastructure. UN reports estimate over 40,000 deaths and widespread humanitarian crises.
Trump’s 20-point peace plan, unveiled in 2025, seeks to end hostilities and rebuild Gaza. It includes demilitarisation, hostage releases, and economic incentives. The Gaza Board of Peace oversees the second phase, focusing on reconstruction.
Pakistan has consistently called for ceasefires and aid access. In December 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed Gaza with Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. They reaffirmed commitment to Trump’s plan provisions, including keeping Rafah Crossing open and preventing Palestinian displacement.
Pakistan’s involvement reflects its foreign policy priorities. Islamabad has provided humanitarian aid to Gaza, including medical supplies worth PKR 500 million in 2024. Joint statements from Muslim nations underscore collective support. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul thanked Trump and Arab states for facilitating peace. He urged Hamas to seize the opportunity.
Implications for South Asia
Trump invites PM Shehbaz amid broader US-Pakistan ties. This could enhance diplomatic relations strained by past Afghan issues. Pakistan’s role in the Gaza Board of Peace may boost its influence in global forums.
South Asian analysts view this as an opportunity for Pakistan to contribute to Muslim unity. India’s response remains neutral, with PM Narendra Modi welcoming the plan in September 2025. Regional stability could benefit trade routes and energy security.
Critics question the board’s effectiveness without Palestinian buy-in. Hamas has accepted parts but rejected foreign control. Negotiations continue in Cairo and Doha.
Pakistan’s military has expressed support. Army Chief General Asim Munir backed the plan in internal briefings, per reports.
What’s Next
The Gaza Board of Peace executive meets in February 2026. Pakistan must decide on participation levels. Trump invites PM Shehbaz for high-level talks in Washington.
Implementation challenges include funding and security. The World Bank estimates USD 50 billion needed for Gaza reconstruction. Pakistan could provide engineering expertise.
As Trump invites PM Shehbaz, focus shifts to actionable steps for peace.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 19th, 2026
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