On Thursday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) condemned US President Donald Trump’s remarks, which described a plan to take over the Gaza Strip and resettle Palestinians elsewhere. The controversial proposal, which Trump shared at a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggested that the US would manage Gaza economically while resettling Palestinians in other nations. The plan also envisioned transforming Gaza into a luxurious destination, akin to the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
Global reactions to the plan were largely negative, with many calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that Trump’s proposal was meant to be a temporary resettlement, but Trump had initially indicated the displacement would be permanent.
In response, the FO issued a statement condemning the idea, calling it “deeply troubling and unjust.” They reiterated that Palestinian land belongs to the Palestinian people and emphasized that the only viable solution is a two-state resolution, based on UN Security Council resolutions. Pakistan reaffirmed its support for Palestine’s right to self-determination and the creation of a sovereign state with pre-1967 borders and Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
The FO also condemned Israel’s ongoing violations of international law, including illegal settlements and displacement efforts, warning that such actions undermine regional peace and security. Pakistan urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions and ensure the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, including those in Gaza. Additionally, they called for increased humanitarian aid, access to Gaza, and full operation of UN and international agencies in the region.
Regarding other global developments, the FO mentioned the plight of around 150 Pakistanis stranded in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, due to escalating conflict. With the help of the Pakistani High Commissioner, the Rwandan authorities allowed the stranded citizens to enter Rwanda. The FO confirmed that more Pakistanis are expected to cross the border soon.
The FO also extended condolences over the death of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, and acknowledged his significant contributions to global welfare. His son, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, succeeded him as the 50th Aga Khan.
Furthermore, the FO clarified that the ministry did not arrange former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s visit to the US for the National Prayer Breakfast, and confirmed the handover of the body of a Pakistani terrorist who had been killed in a counterterrorism operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Lastly, the FO reminded the public of Pakistan’s observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day, reaffirming the country’s support for Kashmir’s right to self-determination, and noted that Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s mercy appeal to former US President Biden had been rejected.
