DAVOS: Several Western allies, including the United Kingdom, have declined to participate in U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly proposed Gaza Board of Peace.
According to international news agencies, 35 countries have signed on to join the board, which was proposed during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. However, Trump’s statement that the board could potentially replace the United Nations raised concerns among several European nations.
What is the Board of Peace?
The board is part of a 20-point ceasefire agreement in Gaza, endorsed by both Hamas and Israel, with the UN Security Council validating the plan in November. Its stated goal is to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction and ensure its non-military status.
However, CNN reports that the proposed charter frames the board as an international organization, extending beyond Gaza to promote peace, stability, and governance in conflict-prone regions.
Trump will serve as the indefinite-term chairman, with an executive board including Jared Kushner, Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Countries wishing to become permanent members must contribute $1 billion, officially designated for Gaza’s reconstruction.
Countries Joining the Board
So far, participating countries include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Bahrain, Pakistan, Turkey, Hungary, Morocco, Kosovo, Argentina, Paraguay, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Israel. Belarus’ President Alexander Lukashenko is also joining, while Russia has shown tentative interest but has not confirmed formally. Canada has indicated conditional participation.
Countries Declining or Hesitant
France and Norway have refused participation, citing uncertainties about coordination with the UN. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected involvement due to Russia’s presence on the board, while Italy and Ireland have cited constitutional or procedural concerns. China has stated it will maintain alignment with the UN. The UK has distanced itself, partly due to Russia’s involvement and concerns the board might act as a parallel UN.
Global Concerns
Diplomatic experts have expressed strong reservations about the board’s extensive powers, indefinite leadership under Trump, and potential impact on the UN.
Other concerns include the $1 billion permanent membership requirement, which may raise corruption risks, and the inclusion of parties involved in the Gaza conflict, which could conflict with the board’s peace objectives.
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