US President Donald Trump has invited India to join a proposed body called the “Board of Peace,” part of his peace plan for Gaza. The board is supposed to oversee governance and reconstruction in Gaza after the end of the current conflict. Sources say New Delhi has not responded to the invitation.
The White House has described the peace plan as one comprising three major components. First, there will be a main Board of Peace, to be chaired by President Trump himself. Secondly, there will be a Palestinian committee consisting of technocrats and experts who will handle day-to-day governance of Gaza during the transition period. Thirdly, there will be an executive board that is expected to play an advisory role and help guide decisions relating to rebuilding and administration.
India’s inclusion is being seen as significant in the fact that this is a country keeping fairly good relations with both Israel and Palestine. While India has a strong strategic partnership with Israel, especially in critical areas such as defense, technology, and security, it also continues to voice support for the Palestinian cause and extend humanitarian assistance to Palestine over the years.
Following the onset of the latest conflict between Gaza and other nations, India was one of the earliest nations to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Such assistance was channeled via Egypt and comprised medications and other relief and vital items for the civilian population that have been impacted by conflict.
Given this historical association, it is no surprise that this country is regarded as being acceptable and impartial in order to be involved in such a delicate matter as the administration of peace in Gaza. If this government accepts membership in the Board of Peace, it will be extremely helpful in this area.
