Milei Offers Troops to Gaza Reconstruction Effort at Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ Launch
Washington D.C. – Argentine President Javier Milei pledged Argentine peacekeeping troops for deployment in the Gaza Strip during the inaugural meeting of the “Board of Peace” hosted by former U.S. President Donald Trump on February 19, 2026. The initiative, announced alongside a $10 billion commitment from the United States, aims to address the reconstruction of Gaza and foster stability in the region.
Trump Announces Funding and Troop Commitments
During the event, Donald Trump announced that nine countries had pledged $7 billion towards a Gaza relief package. In addition to Argentina’s troop offer, Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania have committed to deploying troops as part of an international stabilization force. Egypt and Jordan have also pledged to contribute by training police forces for the effort. [ABC7 News]
Argentina’s Role and Milei’s Remarks
President Milei emphasized Argentina’s commitment to peace, stating that it “requires political decision and an institutional architecture capable of sustaining real solutions over time.” He highlighted President Trump’s role in mediating a peace agreement in Gaza, which was subsequently ratified by United Nations Security Council resolution 2803. [Buenos Aires Times]
Milei further offered the collaboration of Argentina’s “White Helmets,” citing their proven experience in peace operations. He expressed a belief in a proactive diplomacy and leadership that confronts challenges with determination, specifically praising President Trump’s approach. He affirmed that any peace built must uphold the non-negotiable rights of man.
The Board of Peace: Structure and Concerns
Trump envisions the “Board of Peace” as a broad geopolitical instrument for resolving global conflicts, extending its scope beyond the initial focus on Gaza reconstruction. [Buenos Aires Times] The initiative has drawn criticism for its opaque nature and the significant control wielded by Trump, who retains veto power and can remain its head even after leaving office. Countries seeking permanent membership will be required to contribute $1 billion.
International Participation and Notable Absences
The inaugural meeting included the participation of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, among others. [Buenos Aires Times] However, major European countries, Russia, and China have remained on the sidelines. Japan, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil have also not expressed interest in the forum, which will be managed from the White House. Italy will participate as a guest and special observer due to the ideological alignment between Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, and Trump.
Regional Players and Ongoing Challenges
Israel, Qatar, and Türkiye are also key players in establishing a roadmap for the political, social, and economic reconstruction of Gaza. However, Israel views Qatar and Türkiye as regional adversaries, presenting a potential challenge to collaborative efforts.
Trump’s Endorsement of Milei
Prior to Milei’s address, Trump reaffirmed his support for the Argentine president, recalling his belief in Milei’s electoral success. He stated that Milei “ended up winning overwhelmingly” in the 2025 legislative elections. [Buenos Aires Times]
Following the meeting, Milei departed Washington D.C. And returned to Buenos Aires.