Europe appears divided as Greece and Cyprus prepare to attend the U.S.-led Gaza “Board of Peace” in Washington on February 19 as observers, while Turkey joins as a full participant.
The differing levels of engagement highlight varying political calculations across the European Union regarding the initiative’s mandate and implications.
Greece: Participation Without Policy Shift
In remarks published on the official website of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis confirmed that Greece had received an invitation and would attend the meeting.
Athens framed its participation as part of its broader diplomatic engagement on Gaza, emphasizing that attendance does not signal a change in its established positions.
In a separate briefing cycle, the Greek Foreign Ministry referenced United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803, underscoring that Greece’s presence at the meeting remains consistent with existing UN-backed parameters.
Officials described the move as keeping Greece “inside the process” without redefining its formal diplomatic stance.
Cyprus Formally Accepts Observer Role
Cyprus has formally accepted the invitation to participate as an observer.
Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated:
“Cyprus has received and accepted an invitation to participate as Observer in the Board of Peace meeting on Gaza, to be held in Washington on 19 February 2026.”
Nicosia presented its participation as part of its consistent diplomatic engagement in regional initiatives concerning Gaza.
Turkey Signs as Founding Participant
Unlike Greece and Cyprus, Türkiye is joining the initiative as a full participant.
A joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s invitation to join the Board of Peace and confirmed that legal steps are underway to formalize participation.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan described the initiative as a “historic opportunity” to help end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and support a lasting and inclusive peace.
He also noted that he signed the charter in Davos on behalf of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
A Fragmented European Position
Across the European Union, participation levels differ. While some member states are engaging fully, others — including Greece, Cyprus, Italy, and Romania — are attending as observers. Several EU countries have not yet confirmed any formal role.
The differing approaches underscore the absence of a unified European position and reflect varying national assessments of the initiative’s mandate, scope, and potential political implications.
As Washington moves forward with the Board of Peace, Europe’s fragmented response could shape the diplomatic dynamics surrounding the Gaza file in the months ahead.
Related News Greece to Deploy Battalion to Gaza International Stabilisation Force