Israel Voices Concerns Over Gaza Oversight Committee
NAHARIYA, Israel – The Israeli government has expressed reservations regarding the recently announced White House committee tasked with overseeing the next phase of developments in Gaza, following the ceasefire.
In a rare public statement, the Israeli government indicated that the formation of this Gaza executive committee “was not coordinated with Israel and is contrary to its policy.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly instructed the foreign ministry to engage with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the matter.
The White House stated the executive committee will pursue the “vision of a Trump-led ‘Board of Peace.'” The committee includes figures such as Rubio, and Jared Kushner, as well as representatives from Middle Eastern governments.
Concerns have been raised about the inclusion of nations that have historically shown a bias toward Hamas, potentially undermining Israel’s security interests and its ability to defend itself against future threats. Some worry that these nations cannot be impartial brokers for peace.
Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to prepare the military for a potential return to war. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed similar sentiments, stating, “the countries that kept Hamas alive cannot be the ones that replace it.”
Meanwhile, the parents of Ran Gvili, tragically killed during the initial Hamas attack, voiced their worry over the moves toward Gaza’s rehabilitation. They believe focus should remain on ensuring the return of all those held captive by Hamas.
The initial Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals and the abduction of over 250 hostages.
