Global Summit Framed as Legacy Moment
President Donald Trump unveiled a new international body dubbed the “Board of Peace,” presenting it as a cornerstone of his second-term foreign policy and a defining moment of his presidency.
Speaking before representatives from at least 40 countries, including several heads of state, Trump described the gathering as one of the most consequential days of his career. He said the board would help resolve global conflicts, beginning with Gaza, and later expanding to other regions.
Trump announced that members had pledged $7 billion toward Gaza reconstruction and committed $10 billion from the United States to the broader initiative. He did not specify how the U.S. funds would be sourced.
Peacekeeping Vision and U.N. Tensions
The president said the board would support stabilization efforts in Gaza, including humanitarian coordination and long-term rebuilding projects. A presentation outlined a multi-year reconstruction strategy for Rafah and proposed a regional economic corridor linking Gaza to neighboring countries.
Trump said the board would “lift up” the United Nations while also overseeing whether it operates effectively. Some allies have expressed concern that the initiative could sideline the U.N.’s traditional peacekeeping role.
Several countries, including the U.K., France, Norway and Sweden, declined full participation, though some sent envoys. Norway agreed to host a future meeting. Pope Leo XIV also declined an invitation, citing the U.N.’s primary role in crisis management.
Security Commitments and Iran Warning
Trump detailed plans for a U.N.-authorized stabilization force in Gaza, with contributions from countries such as Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo and Albania. He also acknowledged ongoing negotiations with Iran, warning that “bad things will happen” if a meaningful agreement is not reached, and said further decisions could come within 10 days.
The U.S. has increased its military presence in the region amid diplomatic efforts, signaling a dual-track approach of negotiation and deterrence.
Political Undertones and Global Alliances
Leaders in attendance included Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Argentine President Javier Milei. Trump highlighted his endorsements of foreign counterparts and praised members of his administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance.
While some countries joined the initiative, others declined membership or remain undecided. Canada’s invitation was withdrawn last month. The European Union said it would attend as an observer but not join the board.
Questions Over Representation
The initiative has drawn criticism from human rights advocates and some Palestinian leaders who argue that Palestinian representation is limited within the Gaza executive framework.
A separate technocratic body supervised by the Gaza executive board is expected to oversee day-to-day administration, composed of Palestinian officials.
The broader ceasefire in Gaza has largely held, though sporadic violence continues. Major challenges remain, including reconstruction, governance and demilitarization provisions outlined in the truce.
Trump concluded by declaring that the war in Gaza “is over,” while acknowledging lingering instability.
