ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has confirmed that the possible deployment of Pakistani troops in Gaza is being considered, but no final decision has been taken yet.
He clarified that the matter is “in process” and before any decision is taken, Parliament, allies, and relevant institutions will be taken into confidence. While talking to media Defence Minister was asked whether Pakistan is really going to send troops to Gaza as part of the international peacekeeping force? To this, Khawaja Asif said, “Gaza is close to my heart, I love the people there. If the Islamic world takes such a decision and Pakistan joins it, then it will be a matter of pride for us to be able to play a role in protecting our brothers.”
He said that this could be a great opportunity for Pakistan to work together with the Muslim world to serve humanity, if the opportunity is available, then Pakistan should seize it.”
On the other hand, the Indian media is busy spreading rumours on this issue. Indian news outlet “First Post” quoted “CNN News 18” as claiming that Pakistan is preparing to deploy 20,000 troops in Gaza, and in return will receive economic incentives from the US, including World Bank debt relief and financial assistance from Gulf countries.
The same report also said that the Pakistani army will act as a “buffer force” as per Western directives, and it aims to rebuild, restore peace, and provide security in Gaza. Along with this, the Indian media also made the controversial claim that Field Marshal Asim Munir had secret meetings with officials of the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad and the US CIA.
Following these reports, Pakistan’s Information Ministry reacted strongly and dismissed all the claims as “disrespectful.” “fabricated propaganda.” The Ministry of Information said that Pakistan had neither made any proposal, nor had it discussed with any international intelligence agency, nor had it entered into any agreement to send troops to Gaza. According to the Ministry of Information spokesperson, “CNN News 18 has a history of publishing anti-Pakistan misinformation and false reports in the past, and this news is also a link in the same chain.”
Meanwhile, Israeli media outlets “YNet News” and “Times of Israel” have also reported that a “global peacekeeping force” is being considered to distribute humanitarian aid, train local forces, and restore peace in Gaza, which could include soldiers from countries like Pakistan, Indonesia, and Azerbaijan. Indonesia has already offered to participate in this mission, while Azerbaijan has also expressed its willingness.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah also said in an interview with a private TV channel that if Pakistan is given a role in establishing peace in Gaza and helping the Palestinians, “it would be a source of pride for us,” however, he clarified that the government has not yet received any formal offer.
He further said that Pakistan is among the eight countries that support the establishment of peace and stability in Gaza and support the end of the inappropriate military presence there. According to sources, the US administration is considering an “International Stabilization Force” under “Trump’s 20-point plan” (ISF)” that will provide humanitarian assistance, police training, and peacekeeping in the war-torn Gaza Strip. However, there has been no official announcement or approval from Pakistan for military participation. The government says that if any such decision is made, it will be made with full transparency and after gaining the confidence of the parliament and the people.
Read also: Hunger crisis and humanitarian tragedy persist in Gaza
