Trump Praises Pakistan for Gaza Peace Plan Support

US President Donald Trump has expressed strong appreciation for Pakistan's backing of his 20-point Gaza peace plan, specifically praising Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. During a recent White House press briefing, Trump described the Pakistani leaders as "incredible," stating, "They were with us right from the beginning. Incredible. In fact, they just put out a statement that they fully believe in this pact."

This commendation followed a meeting between Trump, Sharif, and Munir in the Oval Office last Thursday. The meeting came after a trade agreement between the US and Pakistan, marking a significant thaw in relations since Trump returned to the White House in January. The US has recently signed an agreement for Pakistan to supply critical minerals and rare earth elements, with an investment of Rs 500 crore in the Pakistani mineral sector.

Trump's Gaza peace plan aims to create a deradicalised zone in Gaza, proposing that if both sides agree, the ongoing conflict could end immediately. The plan includes provisions for the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the return of hostages. Following Trump's announcement, foreign ministers from several countries, including Pakistan, issued a joint statement praising his leadership and efforts to resolve the conflict.

In contrast, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed Trump's plan, calling it a viable pathway to peace. However, Trump's silence on India's support has raised questions about the US's stance towards India amid its praise for Pakistan.

The backdrop of this diplomatic engagement is the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has seen significant casualties since the outbreak of violence on October 7, 2023. The situation remains complex, with various nations expressing differing views on the conflict and the humanitarian crisis in the region.