President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Tuesday that Mexico will not join the U.S.-led “Board of Peace” for Gaza as a full member, reiterating this country’s firm stance on the need for Palestinian representation in any international peace initiative.
Speaking at her morning press conference, Sheinbaum explained that the decision was rooted in Mexico’s official recognition of Palestine as a state. She emphasized that any credible effort to resolve the conflict in the Middle East must include both parties on equal footing.
“In this case, since it specifically concerns peace in the Middle East, and given that we recognize Palestine as a state, it is important for both states, Israel and Palestine, to participate,” Sheinbaum said.
The Board of Peace, an initiative launched by U.S. President Donald Trump, was scheduled to hold its inaugural leadership meeting on Thursday, February 19, in Washington, D.C. The agenda included discussions on fundraising for the reconstruction of Gaza and coordinating a multinational security force.
Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexico would send its ambassador to the United Nations, Héctor Vasconcelos, to participate as an observer. This will allow Mexico to attend meetings and follow the dialogue without binding commitments or having a vote in decisions.