Story perspectives

Trump's Peace Board: China and Arab States Eye Influence

2/3/2026

Center

Trump's Peace Initiative

The Board of Peace, launched by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to address global issues, starting with Gaza.
China is considering joining, fearing that non-participation could diminish its influence in the Middle East.
Key Arab states have expressed interest in joining to influence Gaza’s future.
Critics argue the board could undermine the United Nations' authority.
China sees participation as a chance to promote its principles within a flawed framework.

Left

Pope Considers Peace Role

Pope Leo XIV has been invited to join U.S. President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, a group once focused on Gaza and now broader.
The Vatican is considering the invitation, reflecting its policy of positive neutrality in international affairs.
Analysts say joining could increase the pope’s influence and might erode the Vatican’s moral authority.
Indonesia and Vietnam have shown interest, mainly for economic reasons rather than genuine peace commitments.

1 of 2

Trump's Peace Initiative

The Board of Peace, launched by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to address global issues, starting with Gaza.
China is considering joining, fearing that non-participation could diminish its influence in the Middle East.
Key Arab states have expressed interest in joining to influence Gaza’s future.
Critics argue the board could undermine the United Nations' authority.
China sees participation as a chance to promote its principles within a flawed framework.

1 / 2