JI Chief Criticises Govt’s Participation in Trump-Led Gaza Peace Meeting

Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Saturday voiced strong criticism against the government for its participation in the inaugural Board of Peace (BoP) meeting on Gaza, terming the move "unacceptable." His remarks followed the BoP's first meeting, which took place on Thursday in Washington.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reportedly praised the peacemaking efforts of United States President Donald Trump, who is leading the forum. Rehman, while addressing the media in Lahore, stated that disregarding Pakistan's longstanding policy on the Palestine issue was "unacceptable at any cost." He emphasised that Pakistan's stance on Palestine, established since the era of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, has always been clear and any deviation from this policy would not be tolerated.

The JI chief also expressed opposition to any proposal involving the deployment of Pakistani troops to Gaza as part of an International Stabilisation Force (ISF), which is envisioned under Trump’s 20-point plan. Rehman argued that the situation in Gaza should be managed by local Palestinian police and security forces, rather than by international or foreign troops.

Rehman reiterated his party's position that Pakistan must adhere to its established foreign policy regarding the Palestine issue. He warned that any shift away from this policy would be intolerable, underscoring the importance of respecting the country’s historical stance.

The JI leader's comments reflect growing concerns among some political circles about Pakistan's involvement in international initiatives related to Gaza, especially those led by foreign leaders. Rehman insisted that the internal affairs of Gaza should remain under the control of its local authorities, and cautioned against external intervention.

The government has not issued an official response to Rehman's statements yet.