White House Plans First “Peace Council” Meeting Alongside Netanyahu Visit
Washington moves to launch Trump’s so-called “Peace Council” as Netanyahu visits, framing Gaza reconstruction while shielding Israel from accountability.
Palestine, PUREWILAYAH.COM - The White House is planning to convene the first meeting of the so-called “Peace Council” on February 19, coinciding with a planned visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Washington, according to a report by Axios.
Axios cited a US source and diplomats from four countries said to be members of the council, noting that the meeting—if it goes ahead—is likely to be scheduled either during Netanyahu’s visit or shortly before his participation in the annual conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), set for February 22–24.
The timing underscores Washington’s continued political alignment with Israel’s leadership, even as Gaza remains devastated by months of Israeli aggression carried out with full US backing.
Gaza “Reconstruction” Framed as Political Fundraising Drive
According to Axios, a US official described the planned meeting as effectively a “fundraising campaign” for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, part of the White House’s effort to advance what it calls the second phase of President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war on Gaza.
Critics note that such framing reduces Gaza’s catastrophe—produced by sustained Israeli bombardment and siege—into a financial and diplomatic project, while absolving Israel and the United States of responsibility for the destruction.
Israeli outlet Ynet reported on Saturday that preparations for the “Peace Council” meeting remain at an early stage and could still undergo changes, reflecting uncertainty even within allied circles.
Rafah Crossing, Gaza Administration, and US Political Calculations
These developments follow the reopening of the Rafah Border Crossing last week, a move portrayed by Washington as a signal marking the start of reconstruction efforts proposed by Trump.
Behind the scenes, sources say intensive contacts have taken place, with expectations that the national committee for managing Gaza affairs could, for the first time, enter the enclave following the reopening of the crossing.
Observers stress that these steps are being pushed without addressing the root cause of Gaza’s devastation: Israel’s occupation, siege, and repeated military assaults—backed politically, militarily, and diplomatically by the United States.
A “Peace Council” Born of Image Politics, Not Justice
Trump announced the formation of the “Peace Council” around two weeks ago, personally presiding over its launch during an event held on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. Several leaders attending the forum agreed to join the council and signed its founding charter.
According to the White House at the time, the council was initially intended to include a limited number of leaders and focus solely on overseeing a ceasefire in Gaza. Trump later expanded its mandate to cover other conflicts worldwide.
Ynet reported that the announcement came amid Trump’s frustration over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, despite his repeated claims that he had ended eight wars globally—claims widely disputed by observers and contradicted by the ongoing devastation in Gaza.
For Palestinian observers and regional analysts, the “Peace Council” is viewed less as a vehicle for justice and more as a political instrument aimed at rebranding US leadership, rehabilitating Israel diplomatically, and managing—rather than ending—the consequences of a war marked by mass civilian suffering. (PW)