Jan 21, 2026 5:34 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur with files from The Canadian Press

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says his government has agreed to participate in former U.S. president Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, signalling a willingness to engage with the initiative despite earlier reservations about its structure.
In a statement released Wednesday by the Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu confirmed Israel’s decision to join the body, which Trump has promoted as a framework for advancing stability in the Middle East. The announcement followed recent Israeli criticism that the proposed Gaza executive component of the board did not adequately reflect Israel’s security and political interests.
Israeli officials had previously expressed concern that the composition of the Gaza body could limit Israel’s influence over decisions affecting the territory, particularly as the war and humanitarian situation continue to draw international scrutiny. Netanyahu’s decision suggests a recalibration, with Israel opting to participate while continuing to push for changes from within the process.
The move comes as international efforts to shape post-war governance in Gaza remain fragmented, with the United States, regional actors, and Israel holding differing views on long-term administration and security arrangements. It remains unclear how much authority the Board of Peace would carry or how its recommendations would be implemented on the ground.




