Washington, DC [US], January 19 (ANI): US President Donald Trump has proposed a high-profile international initiative dubbed the “Board of Peace,” inviting leaders from 60 countries to join a new body aimed at promoting stability and overseeing post-conflict reconstruction, particularly in the Gaza Strip.
According to US officials, the initiative seeks to bring together a group of countries to work on peacebuilding efforts under a charter that emphasizes stable governance and long-term peace in conflict-affected regions.
Under the proposal, countries that commit $1 billion would secure permanent seats on the board, while those that do not contribute could still participate on a three-year term basis. Proponents say the funds would be used to rebuild war-torn areas such as Gaza and to avoid what they describe as bureaucratic bloat seen in other international institutions.
The announcement follows a fragile ceasefire in Gaza that took effect on October 10 after a prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas. Trump’s broader peace plan, which includes the establishment of the board, was endorsed by the UN Security Council in November 2025, paving the way for its role in post-conflict reconstruction efforts.
In letters sent to world leaders, Trump described the board as a “bold new approach to resolving global conflict.” Reports suggest invitations have been extended to countries including Jordan, Greece, Cyprus, Pakistan, Canada, Turkey, Egypt, Paraguay, Argentina, and Albania. Several nations, such as Hungary and Vietnam, have confirmed receiving invitations, with some agreeing to participate and others still considering their involvement.
Despite its ambitions, the proposal has drawn skepticism. European leaders have expressed reluctance to contribute large sums or commit to an organization they view as closely aligned with Trump’s personal vision and potentially rivaling the United Nations’ existing peacebuilding mechanisms. Some diplomats have also noted that the board’s charter makes no explicit reference to Gaza, raising questions about its broader priorities.
Israel’s government has publicly opposed the initiative, saying it was not coordinated with Jerusalem and runs counter to its policy, particularly due to the inclusion of diplomats from Turkey and Qatar. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened his cabinet to discuss the matter further.
Meanwhile, several invited countries, including India and Jordan, are reviewing the proposal internally before making formal commitments. Supporters argue the board could streamline reconstruction funding and enhance international cooperation, while critics warn its structure and funding model could undermine established multilateral institutions. (ANI)
