Israel Voices Strong Opposition to US-Backed Gaza Governance Plan
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized the formation of a new committee designated to govern Gaza, asserting that the initiative was announced without any coordination with Israel and fundamentally contradicts its established policies for the future of the territory. This development follows a White House announcement detailing a multi-faceted plan for transitional management in the region.
Netanyahu’s Rejection and Diplomatic Response
In a statement released on social media platform X on January 17, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office explicitly declared that the introduction of an executive body for Gaza’s administration, presented as a component of a larger “Peace Board,” was undertaken unilaterally. The statement emphasized that this lack of coordination directly contravenes Israel’s official stance and strategic objectives regarding Gaza.
Responding to these developments, Prime Minister Netanyahu has reportedly instructed Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar to engage with the U.S. Secretary of State on an urgent basis to convey Israel’s profound concerns.
White House Unveils Transitional Governance Framework
The White House had previously announced the establishment of the “Peace Board” on Friday evening, confirming the composition of the National Committee for Gaza’s administration. This committee is presented as one of four designated entities intended to manage the transitional phase in Gaza.
Context of the US Plan
This initiative is reportedly part of a comprehensive 20-point plan put forth by U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan’s stated objective is to bring an end to what a particular report describes as “Israel’s genocide in Gaza.” This broader framework was reportedly approved by the UN Security Council under Resolution No. 2803.
Leadership and Mandate
The technocratic Palestinian body, the National Committee for Gaza’s administration, will be chaired by Ali Shaath, former Palestinian Deputy Minister of Planning, as confirmed by the White House. Its crucial mission, as outlined by the White House, includes the reconstruction of public services, the revival of civilian institutions, and the stabilization of daily life within Gaza. Concurrently, the committee aims to lay the groundwork for long-term and sustainable governance in the territory.
