WEB DESK: Israel joined US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative, announced Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his Washington visit. Netanyahu signed Israel’s membership and later discussed Iran with Trump.
The first meeting, set for February 19 in Washington, will focus on Gaza reconstruction. Critics view the board as colonial, citing a lack of Palestinian involvement. Israel’s membership has drawn criticism for possibly undermining the UN.
Reactions are mixed. Some US-aligned Middle Eastern nations joined, while many Western allies hesitated. The Gaza ceasefire often collapses, causing heavy casualties since October. Over 72,000 Gazans have died, displacement is rampant, and hunger remains severe. Israel defends its actions as a response to deadly Hamas attacks, though experts and the UN describe the crisis as genocide.
