Netanyahu Agrees to Join Trump's Gaza Peace Board Despite Prior Objections

Netanyahu Joins Trump's Gaza Peace Initiative

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially accepted an invitation from former US President Donald Trump to join his proposed 'Board of Peace' for Gaza. The announcement, made on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, signals a significant development in international efforts to address the future of the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu's decision comes despite earlier objections from his office regarding the composition of a separate, but related, executive committee.

The 'Board of Peace' Mandate

The 'Board of Peace' is a Trump-led initiative, unveiled as part of the second phase of the 'Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict.' Initially conceived as a body to oversee a ceasefire in Gaza, its mandate has reportedly expanded to address broader global conflicts. Chaired by Donald Trump, the board is tasked with providing strategic oversight, mobilizing international resources, and ensuring accountability as Gaza transitions from conflict to peace and development. Its objectives include facilitating reconstruction, establishing governance, and demilitarizing the territory.

Previous Objections and Resolution

Netanyahu's acceptance follows prior reservations from his office concerning the makeup of the 'Gaza Executive Board,' an operational arm of the broader peace initiative. These objections specifically cited the inclusion of representatives from Turkey and Qatar, nations considered regional rivals by Israel. Netanyahu's office had stated that the formation of this executive committee was 'not coordinated with Israel' and ran 'contrary to its policy.' Despite these initial concerns, the Israeli Prime Minister has now committed to joining the overarching 'Board of Peace.'

International Participation and Context

The 'Board of Peace' has garnered varied international responses. Alongside Israel, several other nations have agreed to participate, including:

• United Arab Emirates
• Egypt
• Argentina
• Azerbaijan
• Bahrain
• Belarus
• Hungary
• Kazakhstan
• Kosovo
• Morocco
• Vietnam

Some European countries, such as Norway, have declined to join, citing concerns about the initiative's potential impact on established international structures like the United Nations. Reports indicate that a permanent seat on the board may require a contribution of $1 billion. The United Nations Security Council had previously endorsed Trump's comprehensive peace plan and welcomed the establishment of the Board of Peace.