WASHINGTON The White House is preparing to host the first leaders meeting of President Donald Trump’s newly established Board of Peace an initiative focused on Gaza on February 19 according to Axios.The meeting still in early planning stages may also include fundraising efforts for Gaza’s reconstruction.
The event is scheduled to take place at the US Institute of Peace in Washington. It comes a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet President Trump at the White House on February 18. Officials from four countries involved in the board are reportedly taking part in organizing the meeting though final details remain subject to change.
Trump announced the creation of the Board of Peace in late January presenting it as a new global mechanism for conflict resolution. The initiative has drawn mixed reactions. While several US allies in the Middle East have joined many Western nations have declined with critics warning the board could weaken the role of the United Nations.
A UN Security Council resolution adopted in November granted the board authority to help establish an international stabilization force in Gaza following a fragile ceasefire that began in October. Human rights experts have criticized the initiative citing concerns over governance lack of Palestinian representation and ongoing civilian casualties amid repeated ceasefire violations.
About The Author
