Trump's Board of Peace: A Call to Global Leaders for Gaza Oversight

U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated the formation of the Board of Peace, an effort designed to oversee the upcoming phase of the Gaza peace initiative. This move has drawn diverse responses from world leaders who have been invited to participate, raising concerns regarding the board's authority and framework.

Although Israel has received a formal invitation, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's acceptance remains uncertain. France has opted out for the time being, expressing reservations about the board's alignment with United Nations protocols. Other nations on the invite list include Russia, Belarus, Slovenia, Thailand, and the European Union.

Morocco's King Mohammed VI made history by accepting the invitation, becoming the first Arab head of state to join, while Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Hungary, and Argentina also expressed interest. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko have both received invites, while the European Commission is considering how it might participate.

However, the role of the board is still unclear. Analysts note the inclusion of nations with no direct connections raises questions about decision-making processes. The board is expected to oversee an executive committee responsible for implementing the second phase of the Gaza peace initiative, which involves disarming Hamas, establishing an international security force, and facilitating Gaza's reconstruction.

According to a U.S. official, an investment of $1 billion guarantees a long-term seat on the board, earmarked for Gaza's rebuilding efforts, though a three-year role can be attained without contributing financially. The total cost for revamping Gaza is estimated at $53 billion according to a World Bank report.

Israel's government has expressed robust objections, with far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich labeling the initiative as detrimental to Israel’s interests, advocating for complete military control over Gaza. Netanyahu has acknowledged existing tensions with the U.S. regarding the board’s composition while assuring that it would not negatively impact U.S.-Israel relations. Israel insists that no Turkish or Qatari personnel will be involved in Gaza under this framework.

The United Kingdom, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is currently reassessing its stance and consulting with allies on its role. Simultaneously, Egypt is backing a newly established Palestinian technocratic committee to handle Gaza’s daily operations until the Palestinian Authority regains full governance.

Despite a ceasefire in Gaza lasting over 100 days, the humanitarian situation remains precarious. The U.N. World Food Program is providing assistance to over one million individuals monthly, yet 77% of the population is experiencing crisis-level food shortages.

Tensions continue to rise in the West Bank as Israeli military actions in Hebron target areas considered obstructive to settlement expansion. Three Palestinians, including a teenage boy, were fatal victims of military operations and border confrontations. Since the ceasefire commenced, over 460 individuals have reportedly died due to Israeli fire, according to authorities in Gaza.

Trump's Board of Peace is a bold yet contentious endeavor to navigate a multifaceted regional conflict. Its effectiveness will largely depend on the cooperation among the invited countries, the engagement of Israel and Palestinian authorities, and the board's ability to align with existing international entities such as the United Nations.