US President Donald Trump has announced the formation of a special international peace board aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the Gaza conflict. The proposed “International Peace Council” will oversee ceasefire arrangements, humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. However, the inclusion of Pakistan as a member of the council has triggered a diplomatic debate at the global level.
Israel has strongly objected to Pakistan’s membership in the peace board, citing the absence of diplomatic ties between the two countries and alleging Islamabad’s indirect support for Hamas. Israeli officials have questioned Pakistan’s role in peace negotiations, noting that the country does not recognise Israel. Tel Aviv has expressed serious concerns over Pakistan’s participation in discussions related to Israel’s security.
Analysts believe President Trump’s decision reflects a broader strategic approach to secure cooperation from Islamic nations for lasting peace in Gaza. By including Pakistan, the US is seen as sending a positive signal to the Muslim world while seeking to enhance the credibility of the peace process by involving countries with diverse perspectives. The council is expected to include the US, Israel, Pakistan and several Arab nations, and will focus on monitoring the ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian aid and planning governance arrangements in post-Hamas Gaza. Whether the move will ease the Gaza crisis or strain US–Israel relations further remains uncertain.