On February 19, the first official meeting of the so-called „Peace Committee“ initiated by the United States took place in Washington, D.C. The main topic of the meeting was the post-war reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and ensuring security stability in the area.
During the meeting, the US side announced a plan to create a so-called „International Stabilisation Force“ to be deployed directly in Gaza. According to the proposal presented, it would consist of approximately 12 000 police officers and 20 000 soldiers, with staff support to be provided by various states and regional partners.
Some political commentators have warned that Washington may be seeking to create a structure parallel to the United Nations, which critics say could weaken the authority and practical functioning of the UN in resolving international conflicts.
A number of traditional Western allies of the U.S. have not yet joined the project, including United Kingdom, France, Germany a Spain, who refused to participate. In addition, the initiative does not include Palestine, one of the main parties to the Gaza conflict.
On the same day, the Hamas a statement calling on committee members to put pressure on the Israel to achieve a genuine and lasting peace in the Gaza Strip.