Divya Delhi : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join the newly announced “Board of Peace” for Gaza, a move that has sparked fresh controversy due to an active International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him for alleged war crimes in the enclave. Netanyahu’s office confirmed the development through a social media post, despite the ICC’s ongoing case related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The initiative is part of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas and is aimed at shaping Gaza’s post-war governance and reconstruction. According to US officials, the board will focus on rebuilding Gaza by overseeing governance frameworks, regional engagement, reconstruction planning, investment promotion, and large-scale financial mobilisation. President Trump is expected to lead the body and determine its composition. However, Netanyahu’s inclusion has raised questions about the credibility and impartiality of the proposed board, particularly as he is directly linked to the conflict the panel seeks to address. Critics argue that his role undermines claims of neutrality and accountability. The decision also comes despite earlier objections from Netanyahu’s office regarding the board’s executive committee, which reportedly includes Türkiye, a regional rival of Israel. Netanyahu is not the only controversial figure invited to join the group. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who faces an ICC indictment over Russia’s war in Ukraine, was also invited earlier this week. The Kremlin stated it is reviewing the proposal and seeking further clarification from Washington. Reports suggest that Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin, has also received an invitation to participate in the initiative.
