Washington — Over 10 countries have shown interest in joining President Trump’s “Board of Peace” for Gaza. So far, five have publicly accepted: the United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Morocco, Hungary, and Canada.
The president’s idea is to create a group of world leaders, with him at the helm. To become permanent members, countries must contribute $1 billion, although Canada has stated it will not pay to join. Some nations may give a smaller sum, around $20 million, instead.
A White House official shared that nearly every dollar raised will be used to support the board’s mission in Gaza, while efforts for rebuilding Gaza will be separate.
Trump hopes to have a signing ceremony for the board during the World Economic Forum in Davos. He’s even considering if the board’s efforts should extend beyond Gaza, possibly challenging the United Nations.
However, the initiative is facing challenges from U.S. allies. Support for the board is low, especially since Trump has revived his desire to acquire Greenland. This move may complicate relations and could prove embarrassing if the board garners little backing in Davos.
Interestingly, Russia has been invited to join even amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. claims that Russia poses a national security threat, highlighting the complexity of international relations.
In a surprising move, Trump threatened to impose 200% tariffs on French wine and champagne if France doesn’t join the board. It’s unclear if this was a serious threat or a jest, but sources indicate France may not respond positively.
The White House states that the Board of Peace aims to play a pivotal role in realizing President Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza. This includes overseeing international resources and ensuring a smooth transition from conflict to peace and development.
Current statistics reflect growing skepticism about international partnerships. For example, a recent Pew Research survey showed that citizens in many countries are increasingly questioning the effectiveness of global coalitions. With public trust wavering, the success of the Board of Peace could hinge on how well it communicates its objectives and aligns with the interests of its members.
The changing dynamics of global politics emphasize the need for clear strategies in cooperation efforts. In a world where alliances shift rapidly, the effectiveness of such initiatives will likely depend on transparency and the perceived benefits for participating nations.
For a deeper understanding of these international relations, check out the White House’s statement on the Gaza plan.
