Witkoff: Israel, Türkiye participation in Board of Peace could ease tensions

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said that Israel and Türkiye’s participation in US President Donald Trump’s proposed Board of Peace on the Gaza Strip could help ease tensions and improve relations between the two countries.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, Witkoff said he had discussed the issue with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and emphasised the importance of Israel joining the council, Caliber.Az reports.

He acknowledged that there were strains in Israel’s relations with Türkiye and Qatar, but said the aim of the initiative was to encourage dialogue between the parties.

Witkoff added that establishing communication between Israel and Türkiye was a key objective of the proposed body.

Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Türkiye would take part in the Board of Peace, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan representing the country. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu also confirmed Israel’s participation in the board, despite Israel’s earlier objections to Turkish involvement in efforts related to the Gaza Strip.

By Sabina Mammadli