EU Leaders Criticize Trump's Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ as Initiative Pledges $5 Billion in Aid
European leaders have expressed concern over US President Donald Trump's Gaza 'Board of Peace', accusing the initiative of bypassing the United Nations' mandate that initially supported its creation. This comes as Trump announced that members of the Board have pledged over $5 billion in aid for Gaza's reconstruction and committed thousands of personnel to maintain security and peace in the region.
A Controversial Initiative
The Board of Peace, unveiled by Trump at the World Economic Forum, has been criticized by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, who accused Trump of using the Board as a personal vehicle. Spain’s foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, also denounced Trump's attempt to sidestep the original UN mandate for the board, stating that Europe, one of the prominent funders of the Palestinian Authority, has been excluded from the process.
The Board of Peace has been viewed with skepticism by other entities as well. The Palestinian ambassador Marwan Jebril Burini, recently arrived in Brasília, expressed his hope for support from the Brazilian government in the face of such diplomatic challenges, pointing out that the controversial group's first meeting does not include high-level Palestinian representation.
The Israeli Prime Minister has also declined to attend the inaugural meeting, with Gideon Sa'ar representing Israel at the gathering instead.
A Pledge For Peace and Reconstruction
Despite the criticism, Trump's Board of Peace has gathered momentum, with member states pledging over $5 billion towards Gaza's humanitarian and reconstruction efforts. Trump announced the pledge on Truth Social, emphasizing that the board would prove to be the most consequential international body in history.
On top of the financial commitment, member states have promised to deploy thousands of personnel to an International Stabilization Force and local police to maintain security and peace in Gaza. Indonesia, for instance, plans to send 8,000 troops to the region by June.
Hamas and the Future of Gaza
Trump has utilized the Board of Peace to put pressure on Hamas, insisting on their commitment to full and immediate demilitarization. The implications of this move on the future of Gaza and its people are yet to be seen.
EU leaders have voiced their concerns regarding the lack of accountability to Palestinians or the United Nations. The future of Gaza and the effectiveness of the Board of Peace remain contentious issues on the international stage.
As the Board of Peace prepares for its first meeting on February 19th, 2026, at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, the world watches with bated breath. The impact of the pledged funds and personnel on Gaza's reconstruction and the potential for lasting peace hang in the balance.