Trump Launches Gaza Board of Peace Initiative
President Donald Trump is organizing a signing ceremony in Davos, Switzerland, for the Gaza Board of Peace, according to News. The plan comes at Trump’s direction and aims to bring together countries to join the board as founding members.
Bloomberg first reported the development, while News confirmed that the administration began sending official invitations over the weekend. “Dozens” of countries received invites, which went out on Friday.
Countries Invited and Concerns Raised
Trump invited leaders from Russia, Belarus, China, Ukraine, India, Canada, Argentina, Jordan, Egypt, Hungary, and Vietnam, among others. However, some nations expressed concern about the board’s financial requirements, including a $1 billion permanent membership fee.
European allies are reportedly discussing adjustments and coordinating a joint response. They also plan to involve Arab nations in efforts to revise the proposal, Bloomberg noted.
Mixed Reactions from World Leaders
When asked about French President Emmanuel Macron’s reluctance to accept the invitation, Trump said, “Did he say that? Well, nobody wants him because he’s going to be out of office very soon. So that’s alright.”
Trump added, “If they feel hostile, I’ll put a 200% tariff on his wines and champagnes and he’ll join. But he doesn’t have to join.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also criticized the initiative after Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Qatari diplomat Ali Al-Thawadi were named to a separate “Gaza Executive Board.” Netanyahu’s office said the move was not coordinated with Israel and “runs contrary to its policy.”
White House Leadership and Key Figures
The White House confirmed that Trump will chair the Gaza Board of Peace. He will be joined by senior political, diplomatic, and business figures, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, and billionaire Marc Rowan.
Trump has touted the board as a way to promote peace in the Gaza region while bringing together global leaders, diplomats, and business representatives.
