Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted an invitation to join US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, marking a significant development in international relations. The board, comprising world leaders, aims to promote stability, restore governance, and secure peace in conflict-affected regions. However, its formation has sparked controversy and raised questions among various countries.
The Board of Peace's charter, leaked to the media, outlines a three-year renewable term for member states, with the option to secure a permanent place by contributing $1bn. Trump, as chairman, will have the authority to create and dissolve subsidiary entities, and select global leaders for the Executive Board. This board will play a crucial role in delivering the Board of Peace's mission.
The initial members of the founding Executive Board include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Middle East special envoy Steve Witkoff, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and former British prime minister Tony Blair. Trump also appointed Nickolay Mladenov, a Bulgarian politician and former UN Middle East envoy, as the Board's representative in Gaza during phase two of the peace plan. This phase aims for reconstruction, demilitarisation, and the disarmament of Hamas, along with a full Israeli withdrawal.
However, the inclusion of representatives from Turkey and Qatar, which helped broker the October ceasefire, has caused concern in Israel. The Israeli media suggests that the decision was made without coordination with the country, and some argue it contradicts Israel's policy. The fragile ceasefire, marked by casualties on both sides, further highlights the challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region.
The war, triggered by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in October 2023, has resulted in significant loss of life and hostage situations. The conflict's resolution remains a complex and sensitive issue, with ongoing debates and differing opinions among international leaders and the public.
