Brazil Reviews U.S. Gaza Peace Council Invite as Lula Withholds Decision

Overview

• Luis Inácio Lula da Silva met Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira at the Palácio do Planalto to discuss President Donald Trump’s invitation to join a Gaza Peace Council.
• Brazilian officials say no decision has been made as the proposal undergoes detailed analysis and consultations with other countries.
• The review will consider the council’s objectives, which nations may join and their positions on the war, and any financial commitments, with a reported draft statute mentioning a $1 billion payment to retain membership.
• The White House describes the council as an advisory forum to support Gaza governance, reconstruction, investment attraction and large-scale financing, linked to a provisional administration launched in Cairo.
• Brazil’s calculus reflects its recognition of Palestine and its leadership’s strong criticism of Israeli military actions, following a 2023 ceasefire push at the UN that was vetoed by the United States.