Tel Aviv/Washington: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to join the newly formed “Gaza Board of Peace,” responding to strong pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Israel will now become a founding member of the board alongside Turkey and Qatar.
Previously, Israel had opposed the inclusion of countries such as Turkey, Qatar, and Pakistan, while the UAE and Azerbaijan had already joined. Analysts suggest that Netanyahu’s decision reflects concerns over U.S. displeasure and the fear of losing influence in Gaza-related matters.
U.S. Pressure and Diplomatic Calculations
Trump had threatened France with a 200% tariff on its wine exports if it did not participate in the board. Analysts believe Netanyahu decided to join partly to avoid isolation and to ensure Israel retains a decisive voice in the board’s deliberations regarding Gaza’s future. As a member, Israel will have equal voting rights in meetings with Turkey, Qatar, Russia, and other participating countries. The board will play a key role in decisions regarding Gaza’s reconstruction and Israel’s security concerns.
Trump’s Board of Peace: A U.S.-Led Initiative
The board, chaired by Donald Trump himself, requires participating countries to contribute $1 billion in funding. The initiative aims to support Gaza’s reconstruction, which Trump criticized as inadequately addressed by the United Nations. In a press briefing at the White House on the first anniversary of his second term, Trump stated, “If the U.N. had acted effectively, this board might not have been necessary. This could even replace the U.N.’s role in Gaza.”
Trump emphasized the board’s potential impact: “We have resolved eight conflicts in my first year without U.N. help. I brought presidents and prime ministers together, enforced strict negotiations, and achieved consensus.”
By joining the Gaza Board of Peace, Israel signals willingness to work within a U.S.-led framework while maintaining influence over Gaza’s future amid complex regional dynamics.
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