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Israel has publicly objected to the White House’s announcement of leaders who will oversee next steps in Gaza as the ceasefire enters its second phase, marking a rare moment of tension between the close allies.
In a statement released Saturday, the Israeli government declared that the Gaza executive committee “was not coordinated with Israel and is contrary to its policy,” though specific objections were not detailed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly instructed the foreign ministry to contact U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the matter.
The executive committee announced by the White House on Friday notably lacks any Israeli government officials, though it does include Israeli businessman and billionaire Yakir Gabay. The committee’s membership consists of several high-profile figures close to U.S. President Donald Trump, including Secretary Rubio, Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Other committee members include former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Trump’s Deputy National Security Adviser Robert Gabriel. The committee also features representatives from regional mediators: a Qatari diplomat, Egypt’s intelligence chief, Turkey’s foreign minister, and a cabinet minister from the United Arab Emirates.
The White House has stated that this executive committee will implement the vision of a Trump-led “Board of Peace,” whose members have yet to be named. Additionally, the administration announced a new Palestinian committee responsible for Gaza’s day-to-day operations, which will operate under the executive committee’s oversight. This Palestinian body held its first meeting Thursday in Cairo.
Turkey’s inclusion could prove significant given its strained relationship with Israel but good standing with Hamas. Turkish officials may play a crucial role in persuading Hamas to relinquish power and disarm. While Hamas has indicated it will dissolve its governing authority once the new Palestinian committee assumes office, the group has shown no signs of dismantling its military wing or security forces.
Netanyahu’s office has not elaborated on its specific objections to the committee’s composition. However, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir quickly backed Netanyahu’s stance, urging him to prepare the military to resume combat operations. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, another far-right ally of Netanyahu, expressed his opposition on social media, stating that “the countries that kept Hamas alive cannot be the ones that replace it.”
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Gaza’s second-largest militant group after Hamas, also expressed dissatisfaction with the committee, claiming it reflected Israeli “specifications.”
This development comes as the Gaza ceasefire enters its second, more challenging phase. The Trump administration announced Wednesday that this next stage includes deploying an international security force, disarming Hamas, and beginning reconstruction of war-torn Gaza.
The parents of Ran Gvili, believed to be the last remaining hostage in Gaza who was killed during the October 7 attack, expressed concerns about Gaza’s rehabilitation while Hamas has yet to fulfill its obligation to return all captives.
The ceasefire that began on October 10 has brought a temporary halt to the deadliest conflict ever fought between Israel and Hamas. The war, sparked by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, primarily civilians, and over 250 hostages taken. Israel’s retaliatory campaign has killed more than 71,400 Palestinians, including over 460 since the ceasefire began, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which maintains casualty records considered reliable by UN agencies and independent experts.
As both sides navigate this fragile ceasefire, the disagreement over the executive committee’s composition highlights the complex diplomatic challenges that lie ahead in establishing lasting stability in the region.
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7 Comments
This announcement highlights the complexities involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the US aims to drive progress, the objections from Israel suggest tensions remain high. Balancing the interests of all stakeholders will be a delicate challenge for the committee.
The inclusion of a prominent Israeli businessman like Yakir Gabay is an interesting choice. His private sector experience could provide a unique perspective, but his lack of direct government ties may limit his influence. A more inclusive approach may be needed to address Israel’s concerns.
It’s intriguing that the committee includes several high-profile figures with close ties to the Trump administration. Their involvement could lend political weight, but may also raise questions about impartiality. Maintaining an objective, inclusive process will be paramount.
This announcement highlights the delicate geopolitics involved in the Israel-Gaza conflict. While the US aims to drive progress, the objections from Israel suggest underlying tensions remain. Effective diplomacy and compromise will be essential for the committee to make meaningful headway.
This is an interesting development in the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. It’s concerning that Israel objects to the US-announced committee, as coordination between the two allies is crucial for progress. I wonder what specific concerns Israel has and how this will impact the ceasefire efforts.
The lack of any Israeli government officials on the executive committee is surprising. Their exclusion could undermine the credibility and effectiveness of the group’s efforts. Effective dialogue and cooperation between all parties will be essential for a sustainable solution.
The composition of this committee raises some valid concerns about potential biases and lack of balanced representation. However, I’m hopeful that the collective experience and expertise of the members can still lead to constructive outcomes, if they approach the challenge with an open and impartial mindset.