Netanyahu Reverses Stance, Joins Trump's Expanding Peace Initiative
In a significant diplomatic shift, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday that he has agreed to participate in U.S. President Donald Trump's newly formed Board of Peace. This decision comes after his office had previously expressed strong reservations about the board's executive committee, which includes Turkey, a key regional rival to Israel. Netanyahu's initial criticism highlighted that the committee's composition was not coordinated with the Israeli government and contradicted its policies, though specific objections were not detailed.
Board's Evolution from Gaza Focus to Global Ambitions
Originally conceived as a compact group of world leaders tasked with overseeing the Gaza ceasefire plan, the Board of Peace has rapidly expanded under Trump's leadership. The Trump administration has extended invitations to dozens of nations, suggesting the board will soon mediate global conflicts. This broadening scope has raised questions about its intended role and effectiveness. During his travels to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Trump is expected to unveil further details, but many aspects remain unclear, including the full list of participating leaders.
Internal Israeli Divisions and International Reactions
Within Israel, the decision has sparked internal debate. Bezalel Smotrich, Israel's far-right finance minister, has openly criticized the board, advocating for Israel to assume unilateral control over Gaza's future instead. Internationally, the board's formation has drawn mixed responses. Several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Vietnam, Belarus, Hungary, Kazakhstan, and Argentina, have confirmed their participation. Others, such as the United Kingdom, Russia, and the European Union's executive arm, have received invitations but have not yet responded, indicating ongoing deliberations.
Controversy Over Potential UN Replacement
The board's creation has ignited controversy, particularly after Trump suggested it might replace the United Nations. When questioned by reporters on Tuesday, Trump remarked that the UN "hasn't been very helpful" and "has never lived up to its potential," though he acknowledged it should continue due to its potential. This stance has prompted criticism from global leaders. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized support for implementing Trump's peace plan but rejected the idea of an organization that could supplant the UN. Trump's dismissive comments about French President Emmanuel Macron, whom he predicted would soon be out of office, further fueled diplomatic tensions, though he later referred to Macron as a friend.
Executive and Gaza Boards: Key Members and Responsibilities
The executive committee of the Board of Peace includes prominent figures such as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Trump's deputy national security adviser Robert Gabriel. Additionally, a separate Gaza Executive Board has been established to implement the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, which involves deploying an international security force, disarming Hamas, and rebuilding Gaza. This board will be overseen by Nickolay Mladenov, a former Bulgarian politician and UN Mideast envoy, with other members including Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Qatari diplomat Ali Al-Thawadi, and Israeli businessman Yakir Gabay.
The Board of Peace also plans to supervise a committee of Palestinian technocrats responsible for Gaza's daily administration, aiming to stabilize the region post-conflict. As this initiative unfolds, its impact on international diplomacy and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a focal point of global attention.
