Shehbaz to meet Trump at White House for Gaza peace talks

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday, with the Gaza ceasefire push and broader regional stability high on the agenda. The premier will travel to Washington from New York, where he has attended engagements on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Officials say the meeting builds on consultations among Muslim leaders in New York that focused on humanitarian relief for Gaza and a pathway to an enduring truce. Islamabad views coordination with key Arab partners as central to any workable plan. Shehbaz Sharif has publicly welcomed Washington’s role, describing President Trump as committed to peacemaking and noting the need for sustained diplomacy. Pakistan, he reiterated, supports initiatives that ensure protection of civilians, expand aid access and create conditions for negotiations. The Prime Minister is expected to brief the US side on Pakistan’s priorities, including de-escalation, support for UN-led relief mechanisms and engagement that can keep channels open between stakeholders. Further details on deliverables will be shaped by the White House discussions and follow-on contacts with regional allies.