The White House, represented by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, has conveyed its disappointment regarding the Vatican's choice not to participate in the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, aimed at addressing the crisis in Gaza. Leavitt labeled the Vatican's absence as 'deeply unfortunate', asserting that peace should transcend partisan and political boundaries as emphasized in their statements. This meeting, which is intended to facilitate discussions on peace-building, comes at a critical time, given the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

This response from the White House follows earlier comments from Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who had expressed concerns regarding the Board of Peace during a ceremony commemorating the 97th anniversary of the Lateran Treaties. Parolin stated that the Vatican would not attend due to its unique nature and the unresolved critical issues surrounding the initiative led by former President Donald Trump. The Vatican's decision signifies a cautious approach to participating in politically charged dialogues, particularly those led by figures with controversial legacies.

The implications of this situation raise questions about the future dynamics between the Vatican and the U.S. administration, particularly concerning international peace efforts. The White House's desire for broader participation underlines the administration's focus on gathering a coalition of support for peace in Gaza while also showcasing the difficulties of bridging differing perspectives on complex global issues involving political and religious dimensions.