On the first day of the Munich Security Conference, significant tension arose between the Trump administration and the European Union over the future of Gaza. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticized the 'Peace Council' created by President Trump, describing it as a personal tool that exempts him from accountability towards Palestinians or the United Nations. This casts doubt on the intentions behind the establishment of the council, which was originally framed as a means to aid Gaza but has seemingly shifted its focus away from its initial goals.

Adding to the fray, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares accused President Trump of attempting to bypass the United Nations mandate granted for the Peace Council, consequently sidelining Europe, a key financier of the Palestinian Authority, from its activation. This position highlights the growing frustration among European leaders who feel excluded from an essential dialogue regarding a region they heavily invest in and care about.

Kallas further emphasized that the establishment of the Peace Council, as per the UN Security Council resolution, was meant to assist Gaza and outlined its operational duration until 2027, allowing Palestinians a voice in its proceedings. However, she pointed out that the current charter of the council provides no mention of Gaza or the UN, suggesting a disconnect between initial intentions and ongoing actions. This situation raises concerns about the broader implications for peace negotiations and the future of international involvement in Gaza.