Netanyahu Accepts Trump's 'Alternative UN' Invitation Before Putin and Xi Respond

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted an invitation to join U.S. President Donald Trump's newly established Board of Peace, despite significant opposition from Israel's far-right coalition. 

TheBoard of Peace was originally conceived as an international coalition that would oversee the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. However, the White House has since expanded its scope by inviting dozens of countries to join what appears to be a diplomatic platform for addressing any global conflict, with critics dubbing it an alternative to the United Nations. ​

The committee's membership selection has raised concerns about potential diplomatic tensions, as it appears to disregard existing geopolitical rivalries. Israeli officials expressed particular frustration that the United States invited Turkey to join without prior consultation, leading some far-right members to initially threaten withdrawal and advocate for unilateral Israeli control over Gaza.

While Netanyahu ultimately approved Israel's participation, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich continues to oppose the arrangement, insisting that Israel should unilaterally determine Gaza's future governance.

Countries confirmed to have joined the Board of Peace include the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Vietnam, Belarus, Hungary, Kazakhstan, and Argentina. The United Kingdom, Russia, China, and the European Union have acknowledged receiving invitations but have yet to respond publicly.

Speculation about the board replacing the United Nations intensified after Trump suggested the possibility when questioned by international media. The president, who has long criticized the UN's effectiveness, stated that the board could potentially serve as an alternative to existing international institutions. This prompted concern across Europe, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressing support for peace initiatives while firmly opposing any replacement of the UN framework.

Alongside the Board of Peace, the White House has announced the creation of a Gaza Executive Board to oversee the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire. This body will oversee the deployment of international security forces, Hamas disarmament, and post-war reconstruction efforts. Former UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov, a Bulgarian diplomat, will serve as the first permanent representative.