President Trump's Board of Peace: A Controversial Initiative for Gaza Peace Plan Oversight
The European Union, Russia, and Thailand have been invited to join President Donald Trump's new Board of Peace to oversee the next phase of the Gaza peace plan. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Thai Foreign Ministry, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are considering the invitations. The board's purpose is to address global conflicts and could potentially rival the U.N. Security Council.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized the Board of Peace, calling it detrimental to Israel and advocating for its dissolution. He suggested taking military action in Gaza if Hamas does not comply with disarmament demands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the committee's formation was not coordinated with the Israeli government and goes against its policy.
The U.S. is expected to announce the official members of the board soon, with a focus on implementing the second phase of the Gaza peace plan. The plan includes deploying an international security force, disarming Hamas, and rebuilding Gaza. Membership on the board requires a $1 billion contribution for permanent status, while a three-year appointment has no financial obligation.
Egypt's top diplomat met with Palestinian technocrats appointed to oversee Gaza's daily affairs during the peace plan's second phase. The committee aims to ensure the unity of Palestinian territories and administrative continuity between Gaza and the West Bank. The U.N. World Food Program has expanded its operations in Gaza, providing food assistance to over a million people monthly, but warns of ongoing food insecurity challenges.
In a tragic incident, a Palestinian teenager was killed by Israeli forces in southern Gaza. The ceasefire has seen over 460 people killed by Israeli fire, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The situation in Gaza remains fragile, with ongoing humanitarian needs and challenges. The international community continues to engage in efforts to support peace and stability in the region.