Sun Feb 08 03:03:51 UTC 2026: # Trump Announces “Board of Peace” Meeting to Fund Gaza Reconstruction, Sidestepping UN
The Story:
Former U.S. President Donald Trump plans to convene the first meeting of his newly formed “Board of Peace” on February 19, 2026, in Washington. The initiative, initially framed around ending the Israel-Hamas conflict, has broadened to encompass resolving global crises. The meeting aims to raise funds for the reconstruction of Gaza and will include world leaders invited in January 2026, as well as members of an executive committee overseeing Gaza’s governance, security, and redevelopment. However, many of America’s European allies are skeptical, viewing it as an attempt to rival the UN Security Council.
Key Points:
- Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” is scheduled to meet on February 19, 2026, in Washington.
- The initiative seeks to raise money for Gaza reconstruction.
- The meeting will be held at the Donald J. Trump US Institute of Peace, formerly the U.S. Institute of Peace, which the Trump administration seized control of last year.
- The board’s mandate has expanded beyond the Israel-Hamas conflict to address broader global crises.
- Many of America’s top allies in Europe have declined to join.
Critical Analysis:
The move to establish a “Board of Peace” and its expansion beyond the initial Gaza focus, coupled with the seizure of the U.S. Institute of Peace, suggests a strategy by Donald Trump to reshape international diplomacy. The parallel timing of the announcement with Netanyahu’s planned meeting with Trump about Iran talks on February 11, 2026, indicates a coordinated effort to address multiple geopolitical issues outside of traditional frameworks like the UN. This implies a deliberate attempt to establish an alternative power structure centered around U.S. influence and potentially aligned with specific allies.
Key Takeaways:
- Trump’s “Board of Peace” represents a potential challenge to the established international order and the role of the United Nations.
- The focus on Gaza reconstruction provides a specific, tangible goal that could attract support, even from those skeptical of the broader initiative.
- European allies’ reluctance highlights concerns about the board’s intentions and its potential to undermine existing diplomatic structures.
- The meeting between Netanyahu and Trump concerning Iran talks indicates a clear agenda beyond only the Gaza conflict.
Impact Analysis:
The long-term impact of the “Board of Peace” hinges on its ability to attract significant funding and international cooperation. If successful, it could establish a parallel system of global governance, diminishing the influence of the UN and shifting power dynamics in favor of nations aligned with Trump’s vision. However, resistance from key allies and the potential for duplication of efforts could limit its effectiveness and further strain international relations. The seizure of the U.S. Institute of Peace also raises concerns about the independence and objectivity of the board’s operations. Ultimately, the initiative represents a significant gamble with potentially far-reaching consequences for the future of global diplomacy and conflict resolution.