Trump announces $5 billion pledges for Gaza reconstruction as part of 'Peace Council' arrangements

US President Donald Trump announced that the countries under the umbrella of the 'Peace Council' have pledged over $5 billion to support humanitarian operations and the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. Trump clarified via his platform 'Truth Social' that the official announcement of this aid will be made during the inaugural meeting of the Council, scheduled to be held in Washington on February 19, with broad international participation.

In addition to financial support, the US President indicated the commitment of member states to send thousands of personnel to participate in an international stabilization force aimed at assisting local police and maintaining security within the Strip. Trump emphasized in his statements the necessity for Hamas to commit to what he described as 'complete and immediate disarmament,' considering the Council to be the most influential tool in history for achieving regional stability.

On the ground, these political moves come at a time when occupation forces still control about 60% of the Gaza Strip, stationed behind what is known as the 'Yellow Line.' Despite the continuation of what is described as a nominal truce since last October, field reports indicate more than two thousand martyrs and injured, amid the destruction of 90% of residential facilities and infrastructure.

Regarding international participation, Romanian President Nicolae Dan and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama confirmed their attendance at the upcoming meeting next week. While Albania participates as a founding state, the Romanian side clarified that its presence would be as an observer, emphasizing support for international peace efforts and contributing to future reconstruction operations in the afflicted Strip.

In the context of Israeli representation, sources reported that Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar will represent the Israeli side in the Washington meetings, commissioned by Benjamin Netanyahu, who will only participate in the 'AIPAC' conference via video. This participation comes amid international criticism of the occupation government joining the Council, especially given the continued obstacles to implementing ceasefire phases.

Trump's plan faces major logistical and political challenges, as Washington stipulates the disarmament of the resistance as a prerequisite for starting reconstruction and deploying international forces. In contrast, a rubble crisis estimated at about 60 million tons emerges, in addition to the occupation's conditions that prevent the return of thousands of Palestinians who left the Strip before the events of October 7.

It is worth noting that the 'Peace Council,' established in mid-January, faces criticism regarding its funding mechanism, as Washington demanded permanent members pay one billion dollars for membership. This condition has raised concerns that the Council could turn into a paid version of the UN Security Council, leading some countries to hesitate to join or settle for observer status.

The Peace Council has unlimited potential to end the conflict in Gaza and achieve regional stability, and it will become the most influential international body in history.