Pakistan not joining Abraham Accords until Palestine independence: Dar

Tos:

Islamabad:Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has categorically dismissed reports suggesting that Pakistan is considering joining the Abraham Accords, reaffirming that the country’s stance on Israel remains firmly linked to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Occupied East Jerusalem) as its capital.

Speaking during a media briefing at Pakistan’s Embassy in Washington on Friday, following his meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Dar said there could be “no flexibility” in Pakistan’s longstanding policy on the Palestinian issue.

Addressing reports and speculation surrounding Pakistan’s possible participation in the Abraham Accords, Dar said numerous questions and rumours had been circulating in recent days.

“There are a lot of rumours going on related to the Abraham Accords. Let me make it clear that Pakistan’s stance is very clear and consistent on that,” he said.

Dar emphasized that Pakistan’s policy has remained unchanged for years and is based on the recognition of an independent Palestinian state under the pre-1967 borders.

“Until Palestine is recognised with the pre-1967 model and Quds Al Sharif becomes its capital, there will be no flexibility on this issue,” he stated.

Pakistan’s position on Palestine remains firm

The deputy prime minister said Pakistan remains steadfast in its support for Palestine and Gaza, stressing that Israel must move towards the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state before any change in Islamabad’s position towards Israel can be considered.

“Pakistan remains steadfast in its position on Palestine and Gaza,” Dar told reporters.

He added that Israel “must move towards the establishment of a Palestinian state” before there could be any shift in Pakistan’s policy regarding diplomatic relations with Israel.

Dar noted that he had reiterated Pakistan’s position during his engagements at the United Nations earlier this week.

Question raised after Trump statement

The issue surfaced during the press conference when Dar was asked whether US President Donald Trump had abandoned his calls for Muslim countries to join the Abraham Accords as part of a potential agreement involving Iran.

The question emerged because Trump did not mention the Abraham Accords in a statement released earlier on Friday outlining possible key elements of a future deal with Tehran.