UNITED NATIONS, Jan 28: At the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, Pakistan expressed its support for the US-led Board of Peace (BoP) under the 15-member body’s resolution 2803. This resolution reaffirms a commitment to achieving lasting peace through Palestinian self-determination and statehood, in line with international law.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, emphasized during a debate on the Middle East situation, including the Palestinian issue, that the international community, particularly the Council, must convert renewed engagement into meaningful change for Palestinians.
He highlighted that the unresolved Palestinian issue is central to instability in the Middle East, pointing out that Israel’s long-standing occupation has led to dispossession and repression, denying Palestinians their right to self-determination.
Ambassador Ahmad noted the initiation of the Peace Plan’s second phase, including establishing the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) and the BoP and Executive Committees, as significant progress. These steps are expected to consolidate the ceasefire, secure a permanent cessation of hostilities, aid transitional arrangements, support recovery and reconstruction, facilitate substantial humanitarian assistance, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable political process toward Palestinian self-determination and statehood.
However, Ambassador Ahmad expressed grave concern over the fragile situation in Gaza, where ceasefire violations continue, endangering civilians. He noted that increased pressure on international humanitarian organizations, such as deregistration and restrictions on operations, hinders support and protection for the vulnerable.
The ambassador also condemned ongoing Israeli attacks on UN premises and the UNRWA, including the recent demolition of the UN compound in Sheikh Jarrah, East Jerusalem. He stated that such actions weaken stabilization efforts and threaten progress. He emphasized the necessity of safeguarding UNRWA’s essential operations.
Pakistan, alongside other Arab and Islamic countries in the group of 8, has joined the Board of Peace, supporting its Security Council-endorsed mandate as articulated in resolution 2803. The Foreign Ministers of the group, in a joint statement, reiterated their support for peace efforts guided by former US President Donald Trump.
In their statement, the foreign ministers committed to executing the Peace Board’s transitional mission, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, and supported by resolution 2803. This plan aims to establish a permanent ceasefire, support Gaza’s reconstruction, and promote a just and lasting peace based on Palestinian self-determination and statehood according to international law, guaranteeing regional security and stability.
Ambassador Ahmad expressed hope that the BoP, under resolution 2803, will lead to actionable steps towards a permanent ceasefire, expanded humanitarian aid, and Gaza’s reconstruction. This process should realize Palestinians’ right to self-determination through a credible political process aligned with international legitimacy and UN resolutions, resulting in an independent Palestine based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds as its capital.
“That is the ultimate goal supported by the international community,” the ambassador noted. “Palestinian-led governance and institutional strengthening, with a pivotal role for the Palestinian Authority, are essential in this regard.”
