President Donald Trump’s newly established “Board of Peace” is set to meet in Washington this week, with member states committing over $5 billion towards Gaza’s rebuilding and stabilization efforts. This gathering will be the first official meeting of the body since its inception in January. Trump, returning from a weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, expressed optimism about the board’s potential impact, mentioning collaboration with the United Nations.
On social media platform Truth Social, Trump announced that the Board of Peace would pledge $5 billion for Gaza, emphasizing the significance of the initiative. The President highlighted the forthcoming event at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, where member states are expected to pledge funds and personnel for humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Trump expressed pride in chairing the Board of Peace, calling it a historic international entity.
The Board of Peace, which was launched in Davos last month, has garnered support from more than two dozen countries, including Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt. Notably, major European allies of the United States have not joined, citing concerns that the body might overshadow the United Nations. Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, presented a comprehensive plan for Gaza’s post-war development during the Davos ceremony, envisioning ambitious construction projects and a focus on humanitarian aid.
Indonesia has announced its readiness to contribute peacekeeping forces to the initiative, with preparations underway to deploy troops for stabilization and humanitarian support. The Indonesian military, led by Brig. Gen. Donny Pramono, aims to deploy around 1,000 troops initially, with potential for an increase to 8,000 pending approval. These forces are intended for peacekeeping purposes and will not engage in combat operations.
The Washington meeting of the Board of Peace coincides with recent diplomatic engagements, including indirect talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva. Trump’s administration has maintained a firm stance on Iran’s nuclear program, with the President emphasizing the need for compliance to avoid potential military actions.
