Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been offered a position on a new Gaza 'peace board' established by former US President Donald Trump as part of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Diplomatic Offer and Expected Acceptance
A senior member of the Trump administration extended the invitation to the British leader. While a formal invitation is still pending, sources indicate that Starmer is anticipated to accept the role. Discussions regarding the board's final composition are reportedly ongoing.
The board, which will be chaired by Trump himself, is intended to temporarily oversee Gaza's administration and manage its reconstruction efforts. It is expected to comprise a group of world leaders, with US media suggesting an announcement on its membership could come as early as this week.
Shifting Membership and International Dynamics
Initially, former Prime Minister Tony Blair was slated for a position. Blair had publicly endorsed the US plans, calling them "the best chance of ending two years of war, misery and suffering."
However, Blair was quietly dropped from consideration following objections from several Middle Eastern nations. Their scepticism and hostility stem from his role in the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq.
Starmer has, nonetheless, fostered a productive relationship with President Trump, even amidst their disagreement over the UK's decision to recognise the state of Palestine last year.
Official Statements and Broader Context
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump confirmed the board was being formed, noting strong international interest. "Essentially, it’s the most important leaders of the most important nations. You take the most important leaders and nations, that’s who the board of peace is going to be," he stated.
In the House of Commons on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper was questioned about Starmer's potential involvement. She reiterated the UK's support for the ceasefire plan, emphasising the ongoing fragile situation and the considerable work ahead, including humanitarian support and the decommissioning of Hamas weapons.
Meanwhile, Starmer has defended his active international engagement. On Monday night, he told Labour MPs that addressing the domestic cost of living would not be achieved through isolationism. He argued that being "in the room" for crucial international negotiations on trade and defence was essential for impacting the UK's economy at home.
