New Delhi: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is facing criticism at home and online after his appearance at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace convened by US President Donald Trump in Washington, DC.
The backlash was triggered by a video circulating on social media that appears to show Sharif offering what users described as a “guard-style salute” to Trump. The authenticity of the clip has not been independently verified, but it has been widely shared.
More footages from the summit also drew undue attention for the Pak PM. During the official group photograph, Sharif was positioned at the edge of the lineup while Trump stood at the centre flanked by major allies. Online commentators interpreted it as symbolic of Pakistan’s marginal role at the gathering.
Shehbaz Sharif is a clown. Trump always make fun of him.
The reason is trump knows who bring him into power.#paobc#1Companhiapic.twitter.com/qsDZS1D6lQ— IshtiaqAliMohmand (@Docdiamonddon00) February 20, 2026
Another clip shows Trump telling Sharif to stand up
Another clip showed Trump gesturing toward Sharif mid-speech and asking him to stand, a moment that triggered further mockery on social media.
When given the floor, Sharif praised Trump as a “man of peace” and the “saviour of South Asia” for his claimed role in mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan — a claim that Indian officials have firmly denied.
The summit brought together representatives from more than 40 countries to discuss humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Trump announced that nine members of the Board of Peace had pledged $7 billion toward a Gaza relief package, while five countries committed troops to an international stabilisation force. The United States said it would contribute $10 billion, though details and congressional approval remain pending.
Pak leaders question Sharif’s decision to join the initiative
Opposition leaders in Pakistan questioned Sharif’s decision to join the initiative without broader consultation and accused him of compromising established foreign policy positions, particularly on Palestinian representation and opposition to Israel.
Members of the Board of Peace include countries such as Argentina, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, among others. India attended as an observer.