Mexico Declines Trump’s “Board of Peace” Invite for Gaza Reconstruction

Mexico has formally rejected an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump to join his newly established “Board of Peace” (BoP), an organization intended to oversee the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. Whereas Mexico will participate at the ambassadorial level as an observer, President Claudia Sheinbaum has declined a formal role for her government within the board.

Reasons for Mexico’s Decision

President Sheinbaum explained that Mexico’s refusal stems from the absence of Palestinian representation at the inaugural session of the board. Mexico officially recognizes Palestine as a sovereign state and considers Palestinian involvement crucial for any legitimate peace initiative in the Middle East. “We have already sent the statement,” Sheinbaum stated. “In it, we recognize the pursuit of peace in any forum that opens up, but in this case, when it comes specifically to peace in the Middle East, given that we recognize Palestine as a state.”

Trump’s “Board of Peace” Initiative

The White House announced in January that the Board of Peace would “play an essential role in fulfilling all 20 points” of Trump’s Gaza peace plan, “providing strategic oversight, mobilizing international resources, and ensuring accountability as Gaza transitions from conflict to peace and development.” The board is scheduled to hold its first meeting this Thursday in Washington, D.C., with Israel represented as a member.

International Response and Observer Status

Several nations view the “Peace Council” as a potential competitor to the United Nations. Like Mexico, Italy and Romania have expressed interest in participating with observer status. Romania’s President Nicusor Dan is expected to attend the meeting in person.

Mexico’s Stance on Peace in the Middle East

Despite declining a formal role, Mexico supports the pursuit of peace in the Middle East, but insists on the inclusion of both Palestinians and Israelis in any meaningful negotiations or reconstruction efforts.

Source: Herald USA, Mexico News Daily, Parriva, Al Jazeera