Paris is reportedly poised to reject an invitation to join the proposed Gaza Peace Council, signaling growing international reservations about the initiative. A French official stated that France does not intend to respond positively to the invitation, raising fundamental questions about the council’s adherence to the principles and structure of the United Nations.
According to sources, European-American discussions regarding the council have been challenging. Concerns center around the proposed mandate and potential overreach of the new body.
President Emmanuel Macron’s circle has reportedly expressed concerns that the council’s charter extends beyond the scope of the Gaza issue, contrary to initial expectations. France, along with other nations, is carefully examining the proposed legal framework in consultation with its partners.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot reportedly stated that the Gaza Peace Council is “far removed from the UN Charter,” adding that it exemplifies a US-led international policy characterized by a “bilateral monopoly” with China on the global stage.
European allies are reportedly working to amend the terms of the Peace Council and are seeking to enlist the support of Arab nations in pressing President Trump to make changes. Trump reportedly aims to sign the charter and authorities of the Peace Council at the upcoming Davos conference.
A deputy spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, Farhan Haq, noted that the Security Council has exclusively authorized the UN Peace Council to carry out its work in Gaza. He added that the form of the new Peace Council will need to be examined upon its actual establishment to determine the nature of its relationship with the United Nations.
The President of Finland has also commented on the Gaza Peace Council, emphasizing that the United Nations remains the best organization for peace mediation.
Meanwhile, a Canadian government source indicated that Canada will not contribute funds to join the council.
