The Republic of Cyprus, alongside Greece, is reportedly evaluating an invitation extended by United States President Donald Trump. This invitation concerns participation in a newly formed "Peace Council" designed to foster stability and reconstruction in Gaza. The proposed summit, scheduled for February 19th in the American capital, signifies a proactive diplomatic manoeuvre by the Trump administration. It aims to garner international support for a comprehensive approach to the protracted Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
This initiative, described as President Trump's brainchild, seeks to convene a diverse array of global stakeholders. They will deliberate on the complex challenges presently facing Gaza. While the precise composition and agenda of the "Peace Council" remain somewhat fluid, discussions are understood to centre on fostering peace. Facilitating vital reconstruction efforts in the war-torn Palestinian territory is also a key focus. The invitation to Nicosia and Athens underscores a perceived alignment of interests and potentially shared perspectives on regional security, prompting careful consideration from both Mediterranean nations.
Sources indicate that Greece has been specifically requested to contribute to a segment focusing on the implementation of a second phase. This phase is part of a broader peace framework, ostensibly designed to guide Gaza's post-conflict recovery. This suggests a potential emphasis on practical, actionable strategies rather than purely theoretical discussions. The United States has extended invitations to a significant number of countries, encompassing a wide geographical and political spectrum. This includes numerous European Union member states, as well as nations from the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. This broad outreach, however, has not been without its complexities, with reports suggesting that some EU countries have initially demurred from participation.
The decision by Cyprus and Greece regarding their attendance is anticipated in the coming days, a choice that will undoubtedly be scrutinised for its geopolitical implications. Their potential involvement could signal a willingness to engage directly with US-led peace efforts, even as other international actors navigate their own diplomatic complexities. The presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose own White House visit has been subject to rescheduling, and the potential attendance of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan are also factors that add layers of intrigue to the proposed gathering.
The US's deliberate formation of this "Peace Council" appears to be a distinct departure from established diplomatic protocols. It aims to create a dedicated forum for addressing the multifaceted issues plaguing Gaza. The engagement with Cyprus and Greece, two countries with significant geopolitical positioning in the Eastern Mediterranean, suggests a strategic intent to leverage their regional proximity and established relationships in the pursuit of a lasting resolution. The outcome of their deliberations on whether to accept the invitation will offer a clearer indication of the broader international community's appetite for engaging with this novel US-led peace endeavour.