Pakistan Calls for End to Ceasefire Violations at Gaza Peace Board Meeting

On February 20, 2026, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the inaugural meeting of the Gaza Board of Peace in Washington, following an invitation from US President Donald Trump. The meeting, held from February 18 to 20, focused on strengthening the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and supporting reconstruction efforts after months of devastating conflict.

The Board of Peace was formed under a United Nations Security Council resolution after an October 2025 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire came after a prolonged period of violence that caused heavy destruction in Gaza. According to United Nations agencies, thousands of civilians were killed and injured during the conflict, and much of Gaza’s infrastructure, including homes, schools, hospitals, and water systems, was damaged or destroyed. International organizations have estimated that billions of dollars will be needed for rebuilding and humanitarian assistance.

At the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly called for an immediate end to ceasefire violations by Israel. He stressed that peace cannot succeed if violations continue. He said that Gaza’s reconstruction and stabilization efforts require a stable and lasting ceasefire. Without peace on the ground, rebuilding efforts will remain difficult.

Shehbaz Sharif clearly stated that the people of Palestine must have “full control of their land and future” in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions. Pakistan has consistently supported the Palestinian cause at international forums, including the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Pakistan’s position is based on international law and long-standing UN resolutions that call for a two-state solution, where both Israel and Palestine can live side by side in peace.

Pakistan formally joined the Board of Peace last month when Prime Minister Sharif signed its charter alongside other world leaders in Davos. This step shows Pakistan’s commitment to global peace efforts and responsible diplomacy. By becoming a member of the Board, Pakistan has taken an active role in international decision-making about Gaza’s future.

The Board of Peace includes an important eight-nation Muslim bloc: Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Pakistan’s participation alongside these countries strengthens the collective voice of the Muslim world in advocating for justice and stability in Palestine. It also shows Pakistan’s growing diplomatic importance and its ability to work closely with regional and global partners.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and other senior officials. Their presence demonstrates that Pakistan is serious about playing a constructive role in international peace-building efforts. The delegation also held discussions on the sidelines of the meeting with senior US leadership and other heads of government. According to Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office, these discussions included bilateral relations and global issues of mutual concern.

Pakistan’s involvement in the Gaza peace process highlights its balanced and responsible foreign policy. While Pakistan firmly supports the rights of Palestinians, it also believes in dialogue, diplomacy, and international cooperation as the path to peace. Pakistan has a long history of supporting humanitarian causes. It has contributed to UN peacekeeping missions worldwide and has often raised its voice for oppressed communities at global platforms.

The reconstruction of Gaza will require coordinated international efforts. According to the United Nations and World Bank estimates from previous Gaza conflicts, rebuilding damaged infrastructure and restoring basic services often takes years and requires strong international financial and political support. Pakistan’s participation in the Board of Peace ensures that the concerns of the Muslim world and developing nations are represented in these discussions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s message at the meeting was clear: peace must be real, not temporary. Ceasefire violations undermine trust and delay rebuilding efforts. For Gaza to move forward, all parties must respect international agreements and international law.

Pakistan’s presence at this high-level meeting reflects its growing diplomatic engagement on global issues. By advocating for justice, reconstruction, and respect for UN resolutions, Pakistan has demonstrated responsible leadership. The country’s commitment to peace and humanitarian values continues to shape its foreign policy.

Pakistan’s participation in the Gaza Board of Peace is an important step toward supporting lasting peace in the Middle East. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for an end to ceasefire violations shows Pakistan’s firm stand for stability, international law, and the rights of the Palestinian people. Through constructive engagement and cooperation, Pakistan is playing a meaningful role in global peace efforts and strengthening its position as a responsible and active member of the international community.