Trump’s Board of Peace: A Challenge to the UN and a Focus on Gaza Reconstruction

U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly formed international Board of Peace convened its first meeting in Washington today, February 20, 2026, to discuss the future of Gaza. The initiative, involving at least twenty-seven official member nations and envoys from approximately forty-five countries, signals a potential shift in international conflict resolution and a challenge to the traditional role of the United Nations.

Gaza Reconstruction and Financial Pledges

A key focus of the Board of Peace is the reconstruction of Gaza, with countries expected to pledge at least $5 billion towards the effort. The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait have each committed $1.2 billion, according to a U.S. Official as reported by Reuters. The board’s membership largely consists of Gulf Arab and Central Asian countries, with Israel joining last week.

A New Approach to Governance

Even as no Palestinian group is currently represented on the Board of Peace, a separate committee comprised of Palestinian technocrats will be established to manage Gaza’s day-to-day governance. This structure reflects a deliberate move away from traditional diplomatic channels, a justification articulated by U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz, who stated that “the old ways” of addressing conflict “were not working” according to the Council on Foreign Relations.

Replacing the UN?

The Board of Peace has drawn criticism for its potential to supplant the United Nations. Some observers believe the initiative aims to bypass the UN’s established rules and legal foundations, particularly given the UN’s recent financial challenges stemming from unpaid U.S. Dues as highlighted by the European Policy Centre. The timing of the Board’s formation, coinciding with the UN’s financial difficulties, is seen by some as intentional.

European Divisions

European nations are divided on the Board of Peace. While London, Paris, Madrid, and Berlin have declined to participate, several other European countries, including Hungary, have openly expressed support. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced his intention to join the body, citing Hungary’s need for peace to foster economic growth as reported by Le Monde. Other nations and even the European Commission have opted to attend as “observers” to avoid straining relations with the United States.

Humanitarian Efforts and Border Openings

Despite the political complexities, humanitarian efforts continue. Since Israel partially opened the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt earlier this month, the UN and partner agencies have facilitated the medical evacuation of at least 108 patients and the return of at least 269 people to Gaza according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. However, some planned humanitarian missions have been blocked by Israel or due to security concerns.

JPMorgan’s Potential Involvement

Financially, JPMorgan Chase is reportedly in talks to provide banking services for Trump’s Board of Peace as reported by Reuters, indicating the scale and ambition of the project.

The Board of Peace represents a significant development in international diplomacy, with the potential to reshape the approach to conflict resolution and humanitarian aid. Its success will depend on navigating complex political dynamics and ensuring effective collaboration between member nations.