Trump Launches Board of Peace with $5 Billion Pledged for Gaza Reconstruction

US President Donald Trump has inaugurated the “Board of Peace,” a new initiative focused on reconstruction in Gaza but with broader global ambitions. The launch, held in Washington on Thursday, brought together a diverse group of international figures, notably excluding many traditional US allies from Europe.

Ceasefire and Disarmament Efforts

The Board of Peace emerged following a ceasefire negotiated by the Trump administration, in collaboration with Qatar and Egypt, to halt two years of conflict in Gaza. The current phase of the plan centers on disarming Hamas, the Palestinian militant group whose October 7, 2023 attack on Israel precipitated a large-scale offensive . Since the truce began, at least 601 people have been killed by Israeli forces, according to Gaza’s health ministry, which operates under Hamas authorities.

$5 Billion Pledged for Gaza Reconstruction

During the inaugural meeting, President Trump detailed pledges exceeding $5 billion for the rebuilding of Gaza, much of which lies in ruins. He has also suggested the possibility of developing resorts in the territory . The Board will also oversee the launch of an International Stabilisation Force to ensure security in Gaza.

International Involvement and Indonesia’s Role

Indonesia has offered to contribute up to 8,000 troops to the International Stabilisation Force, contingent upon its confirmation . Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto participated in the inaugural meeting, following a previous appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, last month.

UAE Contribution and Disarmament Challenges

The United Arab Emirates has pledged over $1 billion to the Board of Peace for Gaza’s postwar future . US officials, including Steve Witkoff, report progress in pressuring Hamas to relinquish its weapons. Israel has proposed restrictions, including the confiscation of personal rifles, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizing the require to remove AK-47s.

Criticism and Concerns

The Board of Peace has faced criticism, with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva characterizing it as “a new UN where only he is the owner.” Concerns have been raised about the Board’s structure and lack of intellectual coherence, as noted by Bruce Jones of the Brookings Institution .

Trump’s Authority and Future Ambitions

Under the terms established by the White House, President Trump will retain veto power over the Board of Peace, even after leaving office. Countries seeking permanent membership will be required to contribute $1 billion. Even as the initial focus is on Gaza, US officials have indicated the Board’s potential to address other global hotspots. The effort coincides with a scaling back of US funding and withdrawal from key bodies within the United Nations.

Ideological Alignment and Notable Absences

The inaugural meeting included ideological allies of President Trump, such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Argentinian President Javier Millei. However, major US allies like France and Canada did not participate. Japan is still considering its involvement, sending an envoy focused on Gaza.