Is Pakistan’s decision to join the Gaza Peace Board the right one? The answer is a clear yes.
To understand this, we must look at the issue in its proper context.
Pakistan’s position on Palestine has always been firm and consistent. From day one, it has recognised the Palestinian right to self-determination. It has never accepted Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and has consistently supported the creation of an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds, Jerusalem, as its capital. Pakistan has been among the most vocal supporters of Palestine at the United Nations since the very beginning. In the 1970s, during critical UN debates on the Palestinian question, Pakistan repeatedly led efforts to raise the issue, often placing itself at the forefront of drafting resolutions. That stance has never wavered. Even today, whenever Palestine is discussed on international platforms, Pakistan’s voice is present, standing for justice and international law.
Joining the Gaza Peace Board does not mean recognising Israel. It does not imply establishing diplomatic relations, joining the Abraham Accords, or becoming part of any international security force. The sole purpose is to respond to the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, stop further bloodshed, and create conditions for sustainable peace.
It is important to understand the circumstances that led to the formation of this Board.
The violence in Gaza has been devastating. Entire neighbourhoods have been reduced to rubble. Families have been torn apart. Hospitals, schools, and shelters have been targeted. This is a clear violation of international law and amounts to war crimes. Yet during the crisis, international law stood powerless, and the United Nations was unable to intervene effectively. There was no authority capable of halting Israel’s actions.
While criticism can be part of a healthy debate, it is clear that remaining outside the Board would have limited Pakistan’s ability to help the people of Gaza.
In this situation, Muslim countries themselves proposed that the United States, under President Donald Trump, should play a role in stopping the conflict. When Trump announced the Gaza Peace Board, almost all Muslim countries supported it. A joint statement by eight Muslim nations clarified its purpose: the Board is a transitional arrangement to implement the Gaza Peace Plan, aligned with UN resolutions, aimed at establishing sustainable peace, rehabilitating Gaza, and advancing a just process. The joint statement explicitly recognises Palestinians’ right to self-determination and their demand for an independent state. While joining the Board, Pakistan has reaffirmed its support for a separate Palestinian state with Al-Quds as its capital.
The key question is whether Muslim countries can do more for Gaza by keeping their distance, or by taking an active role within the Board?
A united stance and collective pressure from Muslim nations can prevent further atrocities. Remaining outside would only leave Gaza more vulnerable and extend the suffering of ordinary civilians.
Pakistan, as a key regional player, cannot remain indifferent while Gaza burns. Its participation is a pragmatic, responsible step. Without this engagement, the alternative would have been endless violence and continued devastation. By joining the Board, Pakistan is ensuring that it is part of the solution rather than a bystander.
The situation in Gaza is still far from what it should be. Attacks continue, and the suffering has not ended. Yet, since the ceasefire and the announcement of the Gaza Peace Board, there has been some improvement. The number of casualties has gone down, and humanitarian aid is finally reaching those who have been cut off for months. The situation remains fragile, but at least there is now hope that things can get better.
This is a realistic and balanced approach, grounded in the realities on the ground rather than rhetoric. Pakistan’s presence ensures that Palestinian rights remain central to decision-making and that the path to a just, dignified, and sustainable peace remains open.
Some have raised concerns or questioned Pakistan’s decision to join the Gaza Peace Board. While criticism can be part of a healthy debate, it is clear that remaining outside the Board would have limited Pakistan’s ability to help the people of Gaza. Participation allows the country to contribute directly to humanitarian relief and to ensure that the rights and needs of Palestinians remain central to the process. In a situation where lives are at stake, engagement provides a practical way to reduce suffering and support a path toward peace.
Pakistan’s decision is a thoughtful and responsible step. Sometimes difficult choices must be made to protect lives, and in this case, Pakistan has acted wisely. The move reflects a deep commitment to the Palestinian cause and an understanding that staying inactive in the face of suffering achieves nothing.
The writer is a lawyer and author based in Islamabad. He tweets @m_asifmahmood