Doubts about the Peace Council Led by Trump: Middle East Experts Ask 'Who Owns Gaza?'
Experts express skepticism about the newly established Peace Council for Gaza, led by Trump, questioning its true motivations and effectiveness amid ongoing complexities in the region.
On the 19th, U.S. President Trump held the first meeting of the newly established 'Peace Council' aimed at governing the Gaza Strip, intending to maintain a ceasefire and facilitate reconstruction efforts. However, critics, like Ryoji Tateyama, an honorary professor at the National Defense Medical College, question the very significance of this council, pointing out that its concept seems detached from the current realities on the ground in Gaza.
Following a ceasefire that took effect last October, the territorial control in Gaza is now divided between Hamas, which retains coastal control, and the Israeli military, which holds the inland territory. This complex situation raises doubts about the feasibility and actions of the proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF) under the Peace Council, prompting skepticism about how it would navigate the existing divisions.
Moreover, concerns are mounting regarding the financial backing for this initiative. Trump's announcement of a $10 billion contribution lacks clear funding sources, leading to questions about whether the amount will actually be provided. Some critics argue that Trump's motives are not focused on genuinely aiding Gaza's reconstruction but rather on generating profits for himself and his family, particularly highlighting investments aimed at economic development through business ventures like AI.