Trump’s Board of Peace: A Plan for Gaza or a Path to Further Division?
The inaugural meeting of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace on Friday sparked immediate debate, not over what was discussed, but who wasn’t at the table. While Israel and representatives from the newly formed Palestinian National Committee for Gaza attended, the absence of both the Palestinian Authority and Hamas has raised serious questions about the board’s legitimacy and potential for success.
The Exclusion of Key Palestinian Voices
Palestinian political analysts are voicing concerns that the Board of Peace is attempting to formulate solutions without the input of those most affected. Mustafa Ibrahim, a Gaza-based analyst, described the situation as a “political mistake that could deepen already existing internal divisions and further erode public trust.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern that imposed solutions, lacking genuine Palestinian participation, are destined to fail.
The reliance on the Palestinian National Committee for Gaza, a temporary administrative body with limited authority, is seen as a deliberate bypass of traditional Palestinian factions and institutions. Abdel Majid Sweilem, a West Bank analyst, emphasized that any initiative announced by the Board will face resistance if Palestinians are not included as core negotiating parties.
Humanitarian Concerns and Daily Realities
Beyond the political implications, the exclusion of Palestinian voices raises significant humanitarian concerns. Analysts like Hussam Al-Dajani point out that policies crafted without Palestinian input risk overlooking the urgent needs of residents struggling with shortages of electricity, food, and healthcare. Ahed Ferwana, another Gaza-based analyst, warned that plans developed without Palestinian representation could worsen the existing humanitarian crisis.
Ordinary citizens echo these concerns. Ayman Al-Zaarab, from Gaza’s Zeitoun neighbourhood, described the Board’s discussions as “words on paper,” failing to address critical issues like reconstruction, essential supplies, and the constant threat of violence. Khaled Al-Salam, from the Nuseirat refugee camp, expressed a deep distrust of the process, stating that such meetings “do not change anything on the ground.”
The Board of Peace and UN Resolution 2803
The Board of Peace, formally established in January 2026, was proposed in September 2025 and is named in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 as a body tasked with overseeing the processes of the Gaza peace plan. The resolution also authorized the board to deploy a temporary peacekeeping force and welcomed its aid with reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip, via the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). As of February 2026, 22 member states have signed the board’s charter, with participating countries required to contribute US$1 billion to renew membership after the first three years.
Financial Commitments and US Leadership
Recent pledges indicate significant financial commitments to Gaza relief. Members of the Board of Peace have collectively pledged over $7 billion (£5.2bn) towards a Gaza “relief package,” as announced by President Trump. The United States has pledged $10 billion to the Board of Peace, promising to contribute to the rebuilding of Gaza. Yet, the board’s governance model, with decision-making authority concentrated in its chair, has drawn criticism from policy analysts and officials.
Will the Board Succeed Where Others Have Failed?
The fundamental challenge facing the Board of Peace is whether it can deliver tangible results while excluding key Palestinian stakeholders. The historical record suggests that frameworks lacking inclusive representation often face rejection. The question remains: can a body claiming to offer solutions truly succeed while excluding the incredibly people those solutions are meant to serve?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Board of Peace?
The Board of Peace is an international organization established by Donald Trump with the stated purpose of promoting peacekeeping, particularly in relation to the Gaza peace plan.
Who is currently chairing the Board of Peace?
Donald Trump is the current chairman of the Board of Peace.
Which countries are members of the Board of Peace?
As of February 2026, 22 countries have signed the Board of Peace’s charter, including Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bulgaria, El Salvador, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Mongolia, Morocco, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States, and Uzbekistan.
What is UN Resolution 2803?
UN Resolution 2803 endorsed President Trump’s Comprehensive Plan and welcomed the establishment of the Board of Peace, authorizing it to deploy a temporary peacekeeping force and aid with reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
What is the NCAG?
The NCAG, or National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, is a temporary administrative body tasked with overseeing the restoration of public services and reconstruction in Gaza.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the Board of Peace’s activities by following official statements from the White House and updates from the United Nations.
Did you know? Participating countries are required to contribute US$1 billion to the organization to renew membership after the first three years.
What are your thoughts on the Board of Peace? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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