Trump’s Board of Peace: A Controversial Initiative for Gaza Reconstruction

The newly established "Peace Council," chaired by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to oversee the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip following the recent conflict. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar is set to attend a meeting in Washington next week, where the Council will discuss strategies for restoring civil order and managing reconstruction efforts. The Council includes prominent figures such as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and it operates under a "Founding Executive Committee" that features Trump's envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. A significant aspect of the Council's agenda is an American plan to disarm Hamas, proposing amnesty in exchange for dismantling its military capabilities.

Arutz Sheva (Israel National News)PBS News HourCyprus caught in dangerous trap over Trump’s Peace Council, diplomats warn

The Board of Peace has reportedly secured pledges exceeding $5 billion from member states for Gaza's reconstruction and humanitarian efforts. Notably, the United Arab Emirates has committed over $1 billion, while Indonesia has indicated readiness to deploy up to 8,000 troops to support stabilization efforts. However, skepticism persists among several U.S. allies regarding the Board's legitimacy and effectiveness, with many European nations declining invitations to participate.

Critics have raised significant concerns about the Board of Peace's potential to undermine established international frameworks, particularly the United Nations. The Council's founding charter lacks explicit limitations to Gaza, suggesting a broader ambition to address global conflicts. This has led to fears that it may operate in competition with the UN, which has traditionally played a central role in conflict resolution. Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign affairs chief, emphasized the importance of accountability in international governance, stating, “Nobody should be above the law.”

Cyprus caught in dangerous trap over Trump’s Peace Council, diplomats warn

There are discrepancies regarding the extent of international support for the Board of Peace. While Trump claims substantial financial commitments, the actual participation of member states remains unclear. Additionally, the reconstruction cost for Gaza is estimated at $70 billion, indicating that current pledges are insufficient to meet the needs of the region.

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President Trump has expressed confidence in the Board of Peace, stating, “The Board of Peace will prove to be the most consequential International Body in History, and it is my honor to serve as its Chairman.” Meanwhile, the government of Cyprus has approached its involvement with caution, initially welcoming the invitation but later expressing concerns about the Council's implications for international law and its potential to rival the UN.

The inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace is scheduled for February 19, 2026, at the U.S. Institute of Peace, where further details regarding member contributions and operational strategies are expected to be announced. The meeting will be pivotal in determining the future direction of the Council and its role in Gaza's reconstruction efforts.