Vietnam has accepted an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join the Gaza peace council as a founding member, committing to global efforts for a lasting peaceful solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The invitation was extended to General Secretary To Lam via a letter from President Trump on 16/1, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In response, General Secretary To Lam affirmed Vietnam's consistent stance: supporting and contributing to international efforts to resolve conflicts through peaceful means, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, while respecting the fundamental rights of all parties involved.

General Secretary To Lam during a phone call with president Trump in 7/2025. Photo: TTXVN

Vietnam views the establishment of the Peace Council as a necessary step to implement the Gaza Peace Plan. This plan was adopted by the United Nations Security Council in Resolution 2803 on 17/11/2025, which encourages member states to join the council to promote peace, humanitarian relief, and reconstruction in the Gaza Strip.

With this in mind, General Secretary To Lam accepted the invitation to join the Gaza peace council. He affirmed Vietnam's readiness to participate as a founding member, working with the US and the international community to actively contribute to a long-term, comprehensive solution for the Middle East peace process, including the establishment of a Palestinian state coexisting peacefully alongside the state of Israel.

General Secretary To Lam also proposed continued cooperation between Vietnam and the US to strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He emphasized developing this partnership more substantially and effectively, enhancing cooperation in various fields aligned with the needs and priorities of both sides. This cooperation would be based on mutual respect, ensuring the legitimate interests of each nation, and actively contributing to peace, cooperation, and development regionally and globally.

The formation of the Gaza peace council represents an important step in phase two of the US-backed plan to end the conflict in the region. President Trump praised the council on 15/1 as "the most excellent and prestigious council ever established".

Phase one of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip began on 10/10/2025. This phase involved the return of Israeli hostages held by the armed group Hamas and its allies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners captured by Israel. Following this, the Israeli army partially withdrew its troops, though it maintained control over most of the Gaza Strip territory.

Phase two of the agreement aims to initiate "complete demilitarization and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, with a focus on disarming all illegal armed entities".

Pham Giang