India Holds Back on Trump's 'Board of Peace' for Gaza Amid Global Skepticism

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India is yet to respond to US President Donald Trump's invitation to join his proposed 'Board of Peace' for Gaza, a move that has sparked international scrutiny. The Indian government is carefully examining the proposal, which was outlined last Friday, due to its potential implications on sensitive issues, including the Kashmir conflict. Sources close to the matter revealed that India continues to support a two-state solution and backs initiatives promoting lasting peace in the region. However, they are concerned about the Board of Peace's plans to tackle global conflicts, which could potentially expand to include the Kashmir issue. The proposed Board of Peace aims to bring lasting peace to Gaza and resolve global conflicts through a 'bold new approach.' Trump has invited over 60 countries to join the initiative, with some, like Canada, accepting the proposal in principle. However, others, including France and the European Union, have expressed reservations about the proposal's legal framework and potential challenges to the United Nations' principles. France has stated that it will not join the Board of Peace at this stage, citing concerns about the proposal's scope and potential impact on the international community. The French government remains committed to a ceasefire in Gaza and a 'credible political horizon for Palestinians and Israelis.' The European Union, Russia, Belarus, and Thailand have acknowledged receiving the invitation, while the Indian government continues to deliberate on its response. The Board of Peace is part of the second phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, with the goal of overseeing governance and coordinating funding for Gaza's reconstruction. A White House executive board has been formed to operationalize the Board of Peace's vision, featuring prominent members, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and World Bank President Ajay Banga. As the international community weighs the proposal, India's decision to join the Board of Peace remains uncertain.