Trump’s Board of Peace: A New Era for Gaza or a Diplomatic Diversion?
President Trump convened the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace on Thursday, securing pledges of over $7 billion for Gaza reconstruction and commitments of troops for an international stabilization force. The initiative, however, is met with skepticism from key U.S. Allies and raises questions about its long-term effectiveness and potential impact on existing international frameworks.
Financial Commitments and Troop Deployments
Nine nations have pledged $7 billion to a reconstruction fund for Gaza, with the U.S. Committing an additional $10 billion to the Board of Peace. Five countries – Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania – have committed troops to the International Stabilization Force (ISF), with Egypt and Jordan agreeing to train police forces. The ISF plans to initially deploy in Rafah, southern Gaza, and expand sector by sector, aiming for a total of 20,000 troops and 12,000 trained police.
A Board Without Palestinians
A significant point of contention is the absence of Palestinian representation on the Board of Peace. Even as Israel is a member, the exclusion of Palestinian voices raises concerns about the inclusivity and legitimacy of the initiative. This omission has fueled criticism that the board may not adequately address the needs and perspectives of the Palestinian people.
Allied Reservations and the Future of Multilateralism
Several key U.S. Allies, including the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Germany, have declined to join the Board of Peace, citing concerns about its composition – specifically the potential inclusion of Russia – and its potential to undermine the role of the United Nations. Canada initially received an invitation but it was rescinded following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s critical remarks. Trump attempted to assuage these concerns, stating his intention to “strengthen the United Nations,” but skepticism remains.
Disarmament and Reconstruction: A Complex Path Forward
The success of the Board of Peace hinges on the disarmament of Hamas and the subsequent reconstruction of Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that reconstruction will not proceed without Hamas’s demilitarization. However, Hamas has expressed reluctance to disarm, fearing Israeli reprisals. The long-term plan relies on a fragile ceasefire established last October after a two-year conflict.
Clarifications and Ongoing Negotiations
A misunderstanding arose regarding Norway’s involvement, with Trump stating they would host an event for the Board of Peace. Norway clarified that it will host a meeting of the Ad-Hoc Liaison Committee (AHCL) for Palestinian aid, a role it has held for decades, but will not join Trump’s board. The U.S. Is also engaged in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, with Trump warning of consequences if an agreement is not reached.
FAQ
- What is the Board of Peace? A group created by President Trump to oversee his ceasefire plan in Gaza and address other global conflicts.
- Who is on the Board of Peace? Representatives from over 40 countries, including Israel, but not Palestinians.
- How much money has been pledged for Gaza reconstruction? Over $7 billion from nine member nations, plus a $10 billion contribution from the U.S.
- What is the role of the International Stabilization Force (ISF)? To provide security and stability in Gaza, starting in Rafah, and train Palestinian police forces.
Further developments regarding troop deployments, the flow of aid, and the disarmament of Hamas will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of the Board of Peace. The initiative’s long-term impact on regional stability and the future of multilateral diplomacy remains to be seen.
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