Washington: The White House is organizing a leaders' summit of the Gaza 'Board of Peace' on February 19 as part of efforts to advance the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire and garner financial support for reconstructing the conflict-stricken Palestinian territory. This initiative was reported by Axios on Friday, citing information from US and diplomatic sources.

According to Anadolu Agency, this upcoming meeting will serve as the inaugural gathering of the Board of Peace and will feature a fundraising conference dedicated to Gaza's reconstruction. A US official, quoted by Axios, stated that the Trump administration has commenced outreach to numerous countries to extend invitations to leaders and discuss logistical arrangements. The summit is anticipated to take place at the Institute of Peace in Washington.

While specific details are not yet confirmed, the administration is actively planning the event and assessing which leaders can attend. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with US President Donald Trump on February 18, a day before the proposed summit. Though Netanyahu has accepted the invitation for Israel to join the Board of Peace, he has yet to sign its charter.

Should Netanyahu participate, it would signify his first public engagement with Arab and Muslim leaders since the October 7 attack by Hamas and the subsequent Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip. It is important to note that these plans are still in their early stages and may be subject to change. The White House has declined to comment on the matter.