Global Leaders Convene for Historic Launch (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Washington DC – President Donald Trump convened the first meeting of his Board of Peace, where international pledges poured in for Gaza’s reconstruction amid a fragile ceasefire.[1][2]
Global Leaders Convene for Historic Launch
President Trump hailed the assembly as one of the most significant accomplishments of his presidency, bringing together dignitaries from more than 40 countries and the European Union.[1] He praised the participants as the greatest leaders in the world, predicting the board could become the most consequential group ever formed. The session took place at the U.S. Institute of Peace, drawing heads of state and top diplomats committed to his vision.
Attendees included Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Other notable figures comprised former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, and representatives from Pakistan and Turkey. Trump addressed the room directly, emphasizing unity and investment in regional stability.[2][3]
Billions Committed to Reconstruction Efforts
Nine member states stepped forward with a combined $7 billion pledge for Gaza relief and rebuilding, a critical step following two years of devastating conflict.[1] The United States matched this with its own $10 billion contribution to the board’s initiatives. Trump described every dollar as an investment in hope and harmony across the region.
Specific pledges came from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait. Five nations – Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania – also agreed to supply troops for an international stabilization force. Indonesia committed up to 1,000 personnel initially, with plans to train local police alongside Egypt and Jordan. These funds represent only a portion of the estimated $70 billion required for full reconstruction.[4]
- Kazakhstan: Part of the $7 billion group pledge
- Azerbaijan: Reconstruction funding
- UAE, Morocco, Bahrain: Key Middle East contributors
- Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Kuwait: Additional pledges
- Indonesia: Troops and potential arms deals
Traditional Allies Opt for Observer Status
Several longstanding U.S. partners attended as observers rather than full members, signaling hesitation about the board’s structure and ambitions. Germany, Italy, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom joined over a dozen nations in this cautious role. Fears arose that the initiative might rival the United Nations, prompting schedule changes for a U.N. Security Council session on Gaza and the West Bank.
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin voiced concerns, stating that the U.N. should primarily manage such crises. Analysts noted skepticism stemmed from the board’s expanded mandate beyond Gaza without clear international authorization. White House officials defended the effort, with U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Mike Waltz arguing that conventional approaches had failed and this group focused on action.[2]
Stabilization Force Targets Core Challenges
The board emerged from Trump’s 20-point plan, which secured an October ceasefire to dismantle Hamas rule and rebuild Gaza. Discussions centered on deploying 12,000 police and 20,000 soldiers, starting in Rafah, to enforce security and Hamas disarmament – a demand central to Israel. Mediators reported some progress, though challenges persisted amid ceasefire violations.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the road ahead remained long, urging contributions from all represented nations. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto pledged collaboration with Islamic countries for lasting peace, recognizing obstacles but committing to effort. The board’s operational arm, the Gaza Executive Board, provided updates on governance and services.
Key Takeaways
- $17 billion total pledges kickstart Gaza rebuilding, far short of $70 billion estimate.
- International force gains initial troop commitments from five nations.
- Global remit raises UN rivalry fears among Western allies.
The Board of Peace marks a pivotal test of Trump’s diplomatic approach, blending bold funding with enforcement mechanisms to sustain peace in Gaza and potentially beyond. As reconstruction begins, its success hinges on overcoming disarmament hurdles and building broader consensus. What are your thoughts on this new initiative? Share in the comments below.