June 24, 2025
By Rana Malhi
ISLAMABAD
The 12-day long intense tension between Iran and Israel in the Middle East, has finally culminated in a ceasefire. The unprecedented announcement was made by US President Donald Trump via the social media platform Truth Social.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the ceasefire and praised President Trump’s efforts, while Iranian officials signaled that Iran would also refrain from further action only if Israel ceased its attacks.
The development came right after Pakistan nominated Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. According to sources in the Foreign Office, the nomination was made in recognition of Trump’s recent mediation roles and efforts for peace at the international level. However, before the ceasefire, Pakistan had expressed grave concern over US strikes on Iran, terming the Trump administration’s actions a blatant violation of international law.
Speaking to Voicepk, senior leaders from three major political parties of Pakistan expressed mixed reactions to the situation.
Latif Khosa, senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), adopted a strong stance, stating that Pakistan must unequivocally stand with Iran. “Verbal statements will not suffice. If there is a threat to Israel, it comes from Pakistan. We must highlight our defensive stance globally,” he said.
He condemned the US bombing of Iran, especially targeting nuclear facilities, calling it a clear breach of international law. “It is shameful to nominate such a person for the Peace Prize. It is an attempt to cover up the atrocities in Palestine and Gaza,” Khosa added.
Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, Member of the National Assembly from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), gave a more cautious response, stating that Trump’s nomination is a symbolic gesture. “We did acknowledge his peace efforts, but that does not mean we endorse all his policies.”
He added that Nobel Prize decisions are judged by ground realities and history. “Time will reveal the true impact of Trump’s role.”
Jamal Raisani, another member of the National Assembly, reiterated Pakistan’s previous condemnation of the US attack on Iran. “The ceasefire is a positive step. Pakistan has always supported peace in the region,” he stated.
Regarding Trump’s nomination, Raisani remarked that while contradictions in Trump’s policies are evident, he did play a mediatory role in some instances, “perhaps that’s why he has been nominated.”
The ceasefire is being seen globally as a welcome move toward peace, but Trump’s nomination has sparked significant debate and questions within Pakistan’s political circles. Analysts believe that in the current global scenario, Pakistan must adopt a balanced, principled, and dignified stance.