WEB DESK – Israel has formally joined U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” initiative, designed to oversee temporary administrative affairs in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the move during a recent visit to Washington, D.C., where he met President Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Netanyahu announced on social media platform X that he had signed documents confirming Israel’s membership in the board. Images released after the meeting showed Netanyahu and Rubio holding the signed papers. During discussions, the leaders also addressed regional security concerns, particularly regarding Iran.
The board was endorsed by the United Nations Security Council in mid-November, allowing its participating countries to work alongside an international stabilization force in Gaza. The initiative follows a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that has been in place since October under Trump’s proposed peace framework.
Under the plan, the board will initially supervise Gaza’s temporary administration, with potential expansion to address broader conflict resolution in the region. The first official meeting is scheduled for February 19 in Washington, focusing on Gaza’s reconstruction.
However, experts and human rights advocates have voiced concerns over the initiative. Critics argue that oversight of local governance by a foreign board resembles neo-colonial administration and question the lack of Palestinian representation.
Despite the ongoing ceasefire, sporadic clashes and casualties continue in Gaza. Reports indicate that hundreds have died since the ceasefire took effect in October, highlighting the fragility of peace efforts in the region.
The announcement has generated debate internationally, with analysts monitoring whether the board can effectively manage reconstruction and stability without inflaming existing tensions between Israel, Hamas, and the broader Palestinian population.
