Israel Rejects U.S. Announcement on Gaza Peace Plan Leadership
Israel has expressed objections to the recent announcement made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding leadership in the Gaza peace process. The country asserted that the formation of the Gaza executive committee was “not coordinated with Israel” and contradicted its policy objectives.
Key Players in Gaza Peace Efforts
The White House introduced an executive committee devoid of any Israeli officials but included Israeli businessman Yakir Gabay. Significant members of the committee comprise notable figures such as:
- Marco Rubio – U.S. Secretary of State
- Steve Witkoff – U.S. envoy
- Jared Kushner – Trump’s son-in-law
- Tony Blair – Former British Prime Minister
- Marc Rowan – CEO of Apollo Global Management
- Ajay Banga – President of the World Bank
- Robert Gabriel – Deputy National Security Adviser
- Qatari diplomat, Egyptian intelligence chief, Turkish Foreign Minister
- UAE cabinet minister
This diverse group includes representatives from nations that have acted as mediators during the ceasefire discussions.
The “Board of Peace” Initiative
The White House described this executive committee as part of Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace.” It aims to facilitate the transition to a new Palestinian committee, which recently convened in Cairo. While Hamas has announced it will dissolve its government upon the committee’s assumption of power, it has not committed to disbanding its military forces.
Response from Israeli Officials
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the Foreign Ministry to engage with Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding these new developments. The Israeli government’s stance was reinforced by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, advocating for military readiness should tensions escalate further.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also voiced concerns, arguing that nations that supported Hamas should not be involved in its replacement. This sentiment was echoed by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which criticized the Gaza executive committee as reflecting Israeli “specifications.”
Escalating Ceasefire Efforts
In conjunction with these announcements, the U.S. has declared the launch of “phase two” of the Gaza ceasefire plan. Key components of this phase include:
- Establishment of the new Palestinian committee.
- Deployment of an international security force.
- Disarmament of Hamas.
- Reconstruction efforts for Gaza.
The first phase of the ceasefire, initiated following the escalation of hostilities beginning October 7, 2023, centered on humanitarian aid and the release of hostages. Over 1,200 individuals were killed in the initial Hamas attack, with ongoing conflict leading to significant Palestinian casualties exceeding 71,400.
As these leaders engage in the complex political positioning surrounding Gaza, the global community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures stability in the region.
