JI, JUI-F urge govt to reject Trump’s board

ISLAMABAD:

The heads of the JI and the JUI-F have expressed serious reservations over Pakistan’s potential participation in Trump’s proposed Board of Peace, demanding that the government not send Pakistani forces to Gaza.

A meeting took place between JI chief Hafiz Naeem and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman in Islamabad during which the head of the two religious parties discussed the Board of Peace, the ongoing wave of terrorism and law and order situation in the country.

Speaking to the media after the meeting at his residence, Fazl said the Board of Peace meeting scheduled for February 19 bypasses the United Nations and that Pakistan’s participation would be inappropriate under any circumstances.

He also stated that it is unacceptable for Pakistan to become part of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) proposed to be formed under the Trump’s Gaza plan.

He urged Islamic countries to refrain from attending the meeting, adding that global powers are making a mockery of the Palestinians while Pakistan’s rulers are participating.

He warned that if the government insists on what he termed “American subservience,” they are prepared to launch a public movement against it.

He announced that a full-scale public campaign would begin after Eid-ul-Fitr, and that JUI-F has scheduled a million march in Mardan on April 12.

The Maulana further said sending troops to Palestine would effectively place Pakistan alongside Israel. He also called on Afghanistan to maintain better relations with Pakistan.

Hafiz Naeem said he held detailed discussions on national and international issues with Fazl. He noted that Pakistan has accepted membership and an invitation to participate in the Board of Peace, and expressed concern that the government might send troops to Gaza.

He emphasized that Pakistan must not become part of any such force and should avoid entering any conflict that could harm Pakistan or Afghanistan. He added that if the government does not reconsider, they will mobilize the public in the coming days.