Trump Launches ‘Board of Peace’; Seven More Countries Invited
The United States has extended invitations to at least seven more countries to join President Donald Trump’s newly announced "Board of Peace," a coalition of global leaders aimed at addressing the evolving situation in Gaza. The initiative reflects a broader ambition to shape international affairs, with Hungary and Vietnam already accepting their invitations.
Why It Matters
This development signifies a potential shift in global governance dynamics, as the U.S. seeks to create an alternative leadership group that might rival the United Nations Security Council. As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, the Board of Peace aims to spearhead efforts for reconstruction and conflict resolution, particularly amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Key Developments
- Seven additional countries, including Hungary and Vietnam, have accepted invites to join the Board of Peace.
- Membership can be secured through a $1 billion contribution for permanent status; otherwise, countries may serve a three-year term.
- Other countries reported to have received invitations include India, Jordan, Greece, Cyprus, and Pakistan.
- The official list of Board members is expected to be announced during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
- This initiative comes as the ceasefire in Gaza transitions into a more challenging phase.
- The Board’s objectives include the formation of a new Palestinian committee, international security deployment, and Hamas disarmament.
Full Report
Membership and Contributions
According to a U.S. official who requested anonymity, a financial contribution of $1 billion guarantees a permanent seat on the Trump-led board. Those not contributing can still join, but their membership is limited to a three-year term. The funds raised are intended for the reconstruction of Gaza.
Reaction from World Leaders
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is among the first to publicly commit, stating his acceptance through a foreign ministry announcement. Similarly, Vietnam’s Communist Party chief, To Lam, confirmed their participation, marking a significant affirmation of Trump’s influence in global politics.
India’s invitation was disclosed by a senior government official familiar with the matter, while other nations, including Canada, Turkey, and Egypt, have also acknowledged receiving invites, although the total number of invitees remains unclear.
Strategic Goals
The Board of Peace is being positioned as a new mechanism to oversee the next steps in Gaza as the ceasefire—initiated on October 10—moves toward implementing more complex solutions. Key initiatives include establishing a Palestinian governing body and disarming Hamas militants while facilitating extensive rebuilding efforts.
In letters addressed to global leaders, Trump outlined his vision for the Board, emphasizing a proactive approach to global conflict resolution. This initiative raises the potential for an alternative to the United Nations Security Council, which has faced gridlock on Gaza-related issues due to U.S. vetoes and diminishing support from other member states.
U.S. Executive Committee
Last week, the White House announced an executive committee, comprising high-profile leaders like U.S. Secretary of State Rubio and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, to advance the Board’s objectives. However, Israel’s government has expressed concerns over the lack of coordination regarding this committee, indicating an unusual level of criticism from its U.S. ally.
Context & Previous Events
The invitation to form the Board of Peace follows a U.N.-backed 20-point ceasefire plan that included the Board’s establishment. During recent weeks, U.S. funding cuts have diminished the U.N.’s capacity to address the crisis in Gaza, further prompting the U.S. to take the lead in proposing an alternative governing body for global peace efforts.
This new venture comes at a time of heightened international scrutiny regarding the U.S.’s role in conflict resolution, especially in light of its contentious relationship with the U.N. during Trump’s administration.
