The makeup of a newly established committee to bring peace to the Gaza Strip has led to significant diplomatic disagreements. Reports suggest that well-known international figures, including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and US Senator Marco Rubio, are set to join the council. The committee's goal is to develop strategies for a stable peace order and reconstruction in the region.
The appointment of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo 'gan is causing particular controversy. The Israeli government has expressed clear opposition to this person. Circles in Jerusalem stated that Erdo 'gan, due to his past positions, cannot be a neutral mediator in this conflict. Fears were voiced that his involvement could endanger Israel's security interests.
The White House has defended the selection. The goal is to involve a broad spectrum of regional and international actors to find a sustainable solution. Besides Western politicians, representatives of influential regional powers are also supposed to play a role. While Tony Blair previously served as the Middle East Quartet's special envoy, Marco Rubio is known as a close ally of the US government with a focus on foreign security issues.
Negotiations regarding the exact division of powers and the council's objectives are ongoing. Despite Israel's objections, the initiators are sticking to the personnel choices so far in order not to weaken the committee's diplomatic reach.
