According to the broadcaster, Netanyahu made the commitment at the start of 2026, raising concerns that the move could create difficulties for Israel later. Legal authorities warned of a gap between Israel’s international commitments and its actual ability to implement them, suggesting retroactive approval by the government. They noted the issue could complicate Israel’s influence over developments in Gaza, particularly as negotiations with Washington involve granting immunities and special rights to Peace Council members, which Israel does not recognize.

The Prime Minister’s Office has yet to respond. Israel’s Justice Ministry stated the decision to join the Peace Council was political, not legal, and that legal advisers would assist if Netanyahu pursued it under government procedures. In January, Netanyahu’s office announced his membership in Trump’s Supreme Peace Council, composed of world leaders. Trump declared: “Tomorrow we will hold a Peace Council meeting, supported worldwide. We will see how it goes.”

On January 16, the White House unveiled transitional governance structures for Gaza, including the Peace Council, Gaza Executive Council, National Gaza Administration Committee, and International Stabilization Force. The first Peace Council meeting on Gaza, chaired by Trump, was held February 19 at the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington. The move formed part of phase two of Trump’s plan to end the Gaza war, comprising 20 clauses and backed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803, adopted November 17, 2025.