Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted U.S. President Donald Trump’s invitation to join the “Board of Peace,” an initiative aimed at resolving international conflicts, starting with the Gaza ceasefire and potentially expanding globally.
Netanyahu’s office announced the decision on January 21, 2026, via social media, marking him as a founding member of the board chaired for life by Trump.
The announcement followed initial criticism from Netanyahu’s office regarding the board’s executive committee, which includes Turkey, a regional rival of Israel.
Despite this, Netanyahu agreed to participate, emphasizing Israel’s role in decisions impacting Gaza’s future and security interests. Azerbaijan also confirmed its acceptance on the same day, joining as another member.
Trump’s Board of Peace was initially envisioned to oversee Gaza’s post-war reconstruction and stabilization, with ambitions to address broader global disputes.
Invitations have been extended to dozens of nations, reflecting Trump’s approach to international diplomacy. Some Western European nations have declined, citing concerns over the board’s composition and objectives.
Netanyahu’s participation occurs amid ongoing ICC scrutiny, with an arrest warrant issued for war crimes in Gaza, raising questions about the board’s objectivity. The move strengthens U.S.-Israel ties under the Trump administration, building on recent meetings at Mar-a-Lago.
This development highlights shifting dynamics in Middle East diplomacy and Trump’s influence on global conflict resolution.