Cyprus to attend Trump Gaza peace meeting as observer

Cyprus will participate as an observer in the upcoming Board of Peace meeting focused on Gaza reconstruction, scheduled to take place in Washington DC on Thursday, February 19, the Republic of Cyprus announced. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed the country’s involvement, emphasizing Cyprus’s ongoing regional role since the crisis began through various initiatives and proposals submitted to international partners.

According to Letymbiotis, Cyprus will contribute to the discussions as the European Union member state geographically closest to the region. The spokesman posted on social media that the country will participate in evolving developments and contribute practically to stability and peacebuilding efforts in the area.

Board of Peace to Implement UN Security Resolution

The Washington meeting will focus on implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803, which was passed on November 17. The resolution received support from Greece and all ten non-permanent members, while permanent members China and Russia abstained from voting.

Resolution 2803 welcomed the creation of the Board of Peace, an initiative proposed by US President Donald Trump. The board will oversee Gaza reconstruction efforts and support the establishment of a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, designed to replace the Hamas administration in managing daily operations throughout the territory.

International Stabilization Force Authorized

Additionally, the UN resolution authorized deployment of an International Stabilization Force comprising initially 8,000 personnel. Greece has committed to participating in this peacekeeping mission with medical personnel, engineers, and security patrol units. The force is expected to eventually expand to 20,000 members as the Gaza reconstruction initiative progresses.

Meanwhile, Cyprus has already demonstrated active engagement in regional peace efforts. Letymbiotis recalled that President Nikos Christodoulides participated in the Sharm el Sheikh Summit and attended the signing ceremony of the peace agreement. During that event, the Cypriot president submitted specific proposals regarding implementation of the Peace Plan, particularly concerning implementation mechanisms and regional support dimensions.

Level of Representation Still Under Discussion

However, the specific level of Cyprus’s representation at the Board of Peace meeting remains to be determined. According to the government spokesman, officials will finalize representation details in consultation with the meeting organizers in Washington.

In contrast, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will not attend the first session of the board, as confirmed by Greek government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis on Thursday. This decision highlights varying approaches among regional partners regarding their participation levels in the initial Gaza reconstruction discussions.

Cyprus’s observer status reflects the country’s strategic position as a nearby EU member state with established humanitarian corridors to Gaza. Throughout the crisis, the island nation has served as a logistical hub for aid delivery and evacuation operations, leveraging its proximity to facilitate international relief efforts.

Furthermore, the upcoming meeting represents a critical step in coordinating international efforts for Gaza’s future governance and reconstruction. The Board of Peace will need to address complex challenges including security arrangements, infrastructure rebuilding, and establishing functional civilian administration in the territory.

The February 19 meeting is expected to establish operational frameworks and coordination mechanisms among participating nations and observers. Authorities have not confirmed additional details about the agenda or expected outcomes from this initial Board of Peace session.