Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’: A New Era for Middle East Diplomacy?
President Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace convened its first meeting Thursday, signaling a potentially dramatic shift in the approach to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader Middle East stability. The initiative, backed by pledges of $7 billion from member states and a $10 billion contribution from the U.S., aims to oversee the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and spearhead reconstruction efforts. But the board’s composition and ambitions are already drawing scrutiny and raising questions about its long-term impact.
A Complex Composition and Concerns from Allies
The Board of Peace includes representatives from over 40 countries, including Argentina, Hungary, India, Pakistan, and Vietnam. However, the absence of key U.S. Allies like the United Kingdom – which sent observers due to concerns about potential Russian involvement – highlights the wariness surrounding the initiative. Notably, there is no Palestinian representation on the board, a point likely to fuel criticism.
Reconstruction and the International Stabilization Force
A central component of Trump’s plan involves the deployment of an International Stabilization Force to Gaza, comprised of 20,000 soldiers and 12,000 police officers. Indonesia is among the nations planning to contribute troops. Reconstruction funds, however, will be directed to areas under Israeli military control, rather than the areas of Gaza currently governed by Hamas. Ali Shaath, appointed to lead a committee of technocrats to administer Gaza, highlighted the “acute” humanitarian needs and “severely damaged” infrastructure.
Disarmament and the Shadow of Renewed Conflict
A critical, and potentially contentious, aspect of the plan is the demand for Hamas to disarm. Israel insists on the relinquishing of all weapons, even small arms, despite simultaneously arming rival Palestinian militias. Israel has given Hamas a 60-day ultimatum to disarm or face a resumption of full-scale military operations. According to a recent report by The Lancet, over 75,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the conflict began.
A Potential Challenge to the United Nations?
Some observers fear the Board of Peace could undermine the role of the United Nations. A U.N. Security Council meeting on Gaza was moved to accommodate diplomats attending both events. Trump himself suggested a future where the Board of Peace could “glance over” the United Nations, ensuring its proper functioning and providing financial assistance. He also indicated a willingness to function “extremely closely” with the U.N. To strengthen its capabilities.
The Iran Factor and Future Uncertainties
Amidst the focus on Gaza, President Trump also alluded to the possibility of further action against Iran, suggesting that the Gaza ceasefire wouldn’t have been possible without previous U.S. And Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. He indicated that further steps might be taken within the next 10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Board of Peace? This proves a group established by President Trump to oversee the ceasefire plan in Gaza and facilitate reconstruction.
- Who is on the Board of Peace? Representatives from over 40 countries, but notably without Palestinian representation.
- What is the role of the International Stabilization Force? To act as a buffer between Israel and Hamas, not to police the streets of Gaza.
- What are the conditions for reconstruction aid? Funds will be directed to areas under Israeli military control, contingent on Hamas disarmament.
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