Bitter dispute between Trump and EU over Gaza’s future breaks out into the open
A heated confrontation has emerged between the EU and the US regarding the control and future of Gaza, with significant criticism directed at Donald Trump’s proposed 'Board of Peace.'
Tensions have escalated between the European Union and the United States over the governance and future of Gaza, particularly in the context of Donald Trump’s proposed 'Board of Peace.' Kaja Kallas, the EU’s head of foreign policy, expressed grave concerns that this board serves as a personal agenda of President Trump, lacking both accountability for the Palestinian people and adherence to established United Nations protocols. Her remarks highlight the EU’s frustrations regarding its exclusion from the peace process, despite its role as a significant funder of the Palestinian Authority.
During the Munich Security Conference, Kallas underscored that while the UN had initially designed a Board of Peace for Gaza, the current iteration has strayed from its original intentions. The board's charter no longer acknowledges Gaza or incorporates any references to the UN, leading to assertions that Trump’s approach undermines both international agreements and the prospects for Palestinian sovereignty. Spain’s foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, joined the critique, accusing Trump of maneuvering to bypass the foundational UN mandate that governs such peace-building efforts.
This dispute is more than just a political standoff; it raises critical questions about international cooperation, the integrity of peace processes in the Middle East, and the role of major powers in influencing regional stability. The exclusion of the EU from these discussions casts doubt on the legitimacy and viability of any peace initiatives put forward by the US, posing potential challenges for diplomatic relations and future negotiations involving both European nations and Palestine. The outcome of this confrontation could significantly shape future engagement in the region and affect the broader dynamics of international diplomacy surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.