Pakistan Shia cleric issues ultimatum to PM Shahbaz to withdraw from Trump’s Gaza Peace Board

New Delhi. Following the recent death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Sheikh Najafi, a prominent cleric of Pakistan’s Shia community, has issued a serious warning to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. He said that if the Prime Minister does not withdraw from the Gaza Peace Board formed by Trump, the political and social consequences will be serious and humiliating.

Najafi stated clearly at a gathering in Gilgit-Baltistan, “I will not use this gathering for political purposes, but I will definitely say one thing: whoever recites the Kalma of ‘Ali-un-Wali-Ullah’ should convey my message to all of Pakistan. If the government does not take action before elections and permanent membership of the board, we will face humiliation and infamy in every street.” He also appealed to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan whether they were willing to sacrifice their lives in support of their leader.

The Shia cleric’s warning comes as elections in Gilgit-Baltistan are approaching. He also directly targeted the Muslim League (Nawaz) and its allies, warning them of political and social humiliation if the government does not immediately resolve the board issue.

Trump’s Gaza Peace Board was established with the cooperation of the United States and Israel. Its purpose is to assist in the reconstruction and governance of Gaza. US President Donald Trump has declared himself the board’s permanent chairman, and countries joining it will have to pay approximately $1 billion for permanent membership. Pakistan has agreed to become a member of the board, which has caused controversy both inside and outside the country.

Experts believe that the Shia cleric’s warning and the Gaza Peace Board issue highlight Pakistan’s inter-religious and political sensitivities. The incident also suggests that US and Israeli military and political actions against Iraq, Gaza, and Iran could have implications for Pakistan’s domestic politics.

Sheikh Najafi made his warning clear, aimed at the government and allied parties. He stated that if PM Shehbaz does not immediately step down from the board and address the controversial aspects of the Gaza Peace Board, a political crisis and social protests could escalate. His message is clear: “Accord with our promises to Martyr Khamenei and the incoming leader, or face the consequences.”