The United States is planning to convene a high-level meeting in Washington on February 19th to discuss a potential ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza, according to Axios. This initiative, reportedly spearheaded by U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East, Walid Habib, aims to bring together a diverse group of international stakeholders to formulate a comprehensive strategy for addressing the ongoing crisis in the region. The meeting’s stated goal is to move beyond current diplomatic efforts and establish a more structured and sustained process for achieving a lasting peace.

Sources familiar with the planning indicate that the ‘Board of Peace’ concept envisions a rotating group of experts, diplomats, and representatives from various sectors – including humanitarian organizations, civil society groups, and potentially even representatives from Hamas – working collaboratively to develop concrete proposals for Gaza’s future. The aim is to create a forum where a wider range of voices can be heard and considered, moving away from the traditional bilateral negotiations that have largely stalled in recent years.

Key Participants Expected

While the exact list of attendees remains confidential, Axios reports that the meeting is expected to draw participation from key allies of the United States, including European nations, Arab states, and potentially representatives from Israel. The composition of the ‘Board’ is intended to reflect a broad international consensus on the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. There is also speculation that representatives from the Palestinian Authority may be invited, although the extent of their involvement is yet to be determined.

The initiative comes amidst growing concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as well as the escalating violence between Israel and Hamas. The Biden administration has been under increasing pressure to take a more proactive role in mediating a ceasefire and addressing the underlying causes of the conflict. This meeting represents a significant step in that direction, signaling a renewed commitment to finding a viable path towards peace.

However, the concept of a ‘Board of Peace’ is not without its critics. Some observers have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of bringing together such a diverse group of actors and achieving a unified vision for Gaza’s future. Others have raised concerns about the potential for the ‘Board’ to become bogged down in endless debate and unable to produce meaningful results. Despite these challenges, the U.S. appears determined to pursue this innovative approach, hoping to break the cycle of violence and create a more stable and prosperous future for the people of Gaza.

The success of the February 19th meeting will likely depend on the willingness of all participants to engage in good faith and compromise. It remains to be seen whether the ‘Board of Peace’ can truly live up to its ambitious goals, but it represents a bold and potentially transformative effort to address one of the world’s most intractable conflicts.