Netanyahu Joins International Peace Commission

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to join the International Peace Commission, following an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed this decision on Tuesday.

“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted the invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump and will join the Peace Council, which includes various world leaders,” stated the Prime Minister’s Office on social media.

This new role, however, might lead to tensions with some of Netanyahu’s allies, notably Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has openly criticized the commission’s objectives, particularly regarding the reconstruction of Gaza.

The Peace Commission was initiated by Trump to facilitate Gaza’s rebuilding process as part of a broader U.S.-mediated peace strategy aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. Trump has also suggested that the focus of the commission may expand to include other international disputes in the future. Reports indicate that members will have a three-year term unless they invest $1 billion for permanent status.

Israel is the most recent nation to accept Trump’s proposal, joining around 60 other countries that were invited.

In addition to Israel, leaders from Argentina, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Morocco have also accepted their invitations, along with confirmation from the United Arab Emirates regarding their membership.

Other countries like Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, and Vietnam have also agreed to participate.

Trump will chair the commission. Board members will include notable figures like U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, political advisor Robert Gabriel Jr., Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and others.

Meanwhile, the Spanish Foreign Minister mentioned that European leaders are currently discussing their stance on the commission.

Additionally, the Kremlin revealed last week that Russian President Vladimir Putin has received an invitation to join. If asked about Putin’s potential participation, Witkoff expressed optimism, stating, “I think so.”

In contrast, Italy has reportedly declined the invitation, citing concerns that joining a commission led by a single leader could contravene its constitution, which emphasizes equal participation in international organizations aimed at maintaining peace and justice among nations.