Prominent Shia clerics in Pakistan have issued a stern ultimatum to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, demanding that the government immediately withdraw from the proposed Gaza Peace Board or face a nationwide protest campaign.

The clerics criticised Islamabad’s reported participation in the international initiative linked to a US-backed peace framework for Gaza, arguing that the move undermines Pakistan’s longstanding position on Palestine. They warned that continued involvement would be viewed as aligning with Western interests at the expense of Palestinian rights.

Demand for Immediate Withdrawal

Religious leaders said the government had failed to consult Parliament or seek public consensus before associating Pakistan with the peace board. They described the initiative as “imbalanced” and alleged that it sidelines Palestinian voices while favouring a Western-driven agenda.

According to statements issued at religious gatherings and press conferences, the clerics have given the government a clear choice: pull out of the board or face intensified street protests and political mobilisation. They stressed that Pakistan, as a Muslim-majority nation, should not be part of any mechanism that appears to dilute support for Palestinian resistance or compromise on key demands.

Mounting Domestic Pressure

The ultimatum comes at a sensitive time for Islamabad, as tensions in West Asia continue to fuel public anger across Pakistan. Demonstrations in recent weeks have highlighted growing dissatisfaction with the government’s foreign policy posture, particularly regarding conflicts involving Israel and Gaza.

Political analysts say the pressure from Shia clerics could deepen existing sectarian and political fault lines. While Pakistan officially supports a two-state solution and has consistently voiced solidarity with Palestinians, critics argue that participation in externally led peace mechanisms may blur that stance.

Government’s Delicate Balancing Act

The federal government has not announced any formal decision to withdraw from the peace board. Officials have maintained that Pakistan’s engagement in diplomatic initiatives is aimed at promoting peace and stability rather than endorsing any single party.

However, the ultimatum places Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration in a challenging position balancing domestic religious sentiment with broader diplomatic engagements and international partnerships. 

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