Trump's Peace Board Draws Global Leaders Amid Mixed Reactions

President Donald Trump has initiated a new venture called the Board of Peace, designed to oversee the forthcoming phases of the Gaza peace strategy. This initiative has garnered varied responses from global leaders, raising questions about its authority and purpose.

Israel has been invited to join the board, but it remains uncertain if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will accept. France has declined involvement for now, citing apprehensions regarding compatibility with United Nations principles. Other invitees include Russia, Belarus, Slovenia, Thailand, along with the European Union.

Morocco's King Mohammed VI has accepted the invitation, marking the first Arab leader's participation, while Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Hungary, and Argentina have also agreed to join. Russian President Vladimir Putin has received an invitation, and Belarus' President Alexander Lukashenko is open to participating. The European Commission is evaluating its potential role.

Several questions linger regarding the board's responsibilities. Analysts point out that many invited countries lack strong ties, which raises doubts regarding decision-making processes. The board's purpose involves overseeing an executive committee assigned with executing the second phase of the Gaza peace plan, which includes disarming Hamas, deploying an international security force, and managing Gaza's reconstruction.

A U.S. official indicated that a $1 billion contribution ensures permanent board membership, directing funds for Gaza's reconstruction. A three-year position does not necessitate a financial commitment. Rebuilding Gaza is projected to cost $53 billion, per a World Bank report.

Israel has expressed vigorous objections. Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich commented that the board could be detrimental to Israel's interests, proposing that Israel should assume complete military control in Gaza. Netanyahu revealed that while there are disagreements with the U.S. concerning the board's structure, it will not impede relations with Trump. Israel firmly opposes any entry by Turkish or Qatari forces as part of the plan.

The U.K., under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is re-evaluating its stance and consulting allies. Concurrently, Egypt supports a newly appointed Palestinian technocrat committee to manage Gaza’s day-to-day operations until the Palestinian Authority regains full control.

Despite a ceasefire in Gaza being upheld for over 100 days, humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate. The U.N. World Food Program is reaching more than a million individuals each month, but 77% of the populace is experiencing crisis-level food insecurity.

Tensions persist in the West Bank, with Israeli military actions in Hebron targeting areas hindering settlement progress. During these security operations, three Palestinians, including a 17-year-old, lost their lives. According to Gaza authorities, over 460 individuals have died from Israeli fire since the ceasefire commenced.

Trump's Board of Peace symbolizes a bold yet contentious attempt to address a multifaceted regional conflict. Its efficacy will be contingent on the cooperative engagement of invited nations, full participation of Israel and Palestinian authorities, and the board's coordination with established international bodies like the United Nations.