Trump’s Board of Peace: A Gaza Reconstruction Plan Met With Deep Skepticism
As President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace (BoP) held its inaugural meeting in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the focus remained on the stark realities facing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Although pledges of billions of dollars were announced, residents expressed profound doubt that these promises would translate into tangible improvements in their daily lives.
Billions Pledged, But Will It Be Enough?
President Trump announced that nine member nations pledged $7 billion to a reconstruction fund for Gaza, with five countries committing troops to an International Stabilisation Force. The U.S. Itself pledged an additional $10 billion to the BoP. However, these figures fall significantly short of the United Nations’ estimated $70 billion needed to rebuild the territory after more than two years of conflict.
The pledges come as a fragile ceasefire, brokered by Trump, remains in effect, though over 600 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire since its implementation.
A History of Unfulfilled Promises
Many Palestinians recall past international donor conferences that yielded little practical change. Amal Joudeh, displaced from Beit Lahiya, voiced a common sentiment: “I’ve heard about money being collected for Gaza, but we witness nothing. This has happened many times, but nothing ever changes.”
This skepticism stems from ongoing Israeli restrictions on the entry of construction materials, which have historically hindered reconstruction efforts following previous ceasefire agreements.
Concerns Over Influence and Control
Awad al-Ghoul, a 70-year-old Palestinian displaced from Rafah, questioned the board’s effectiveness, characterizing it as “a club of major powers.” He raised concerns about the board’s ability to compel Israel to cease attacks and uphold the ceasefire agreement.
Others echoed these concerns, suggesting the board could be a vehicle for imposing external agendas rather than addressing the genuine needs of the Palestinian people. Jamal Abu Makhdeh stated, “They won’t do anything for Gaza. It’s all lies.”
Reconstruction and the Ongoing Conflict
Despite the talk of “stability” and “peace,” the BoP’s initial announcement lacked concrete details regarding reconstruction plans or infrastructure development. Many residents believe that rebuilding efforts are futile as long as Israel continues its military actions and violations of the truce.
Al-Ghoul emphasized, “Reconstruction has no value if Israel’s hand continues destroying and killing. What’s the point of rebuilding while Israel destroys?”
The Role of an International Stabilisation Force
While some, like al-Ghoul, expressed cautious optimism about the potential deployment of an international peacekeeping force, they stressed the necessitate for it to act as a deterrent to Israeli aggression. The force is initially planned for deployment to Rafah, with contributions from Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania.
What Palestinians Truly Need
Beyond financial pledges and international forces, the fundamental demands of Palestinians in Gaza remain consistent: safety, peace, and the right to return to their homes. As Amal Jouda stated, “All I ask for is a dignified life for myself and my children.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Board of Peace? The Board of Peace is an initiative launched by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at resolving international conflicts, with an initial focus on Gaza.
- How much money has been pledged to Gaza? Nine member nations have pledged $7 billion, and the U.S. Has pledged an additional $10 billion.
- What are the main concerns of Palestinians regarding the Board of Peace? Palestinians are skeptical that the pledges will translate into tangible improvements, citing a history of unfulfilled promises and ongoing Israeli actions.
- Will an international force be deployed to Gaza? Yes, five countries have agreed to send troops to an International Stabilisation Force, initially deploying to Rafah.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the evolving situation in Gaza by following reputable news sources and organizations dedicated to humanitarian aid and conflict resolution.
Did you know? The United Nations estimates that up to $70 billion is needed to rebuild Gaza after two years of conflict.
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