Trump Unveils $10 Billion Board of Peace Initiative with Major Gaza Relief Pledges
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a substantial $10 billion donation to a newly established global initiative called the “Board of Peace,” framing it as a decisive move to prevent international conflicts and enhance diplomatic efforts worldwide. In a significant development, he also revealed that nine members of this body have committed $7 billion toward a comprehensive relief package for Gaza, while five countries have agreed to contribute troops to an international stabilization force aimed at the war-torn Palestinian territory.
Initial Deployment and Reconstruction Focus in Rafah
The stabilization force will initially deploy troops to Rafah, a major population center in Gaza, where the U.S. administration plans to concentrate early reconstruction efforts. This strategic focus aims to lay the groundwork for broader recovery in the region, which has been devastated by two years of conflict.
Countries Pledging Support and Financial Commitments
President Trump identified the nations making pledges as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait. He expressed gratitude to these donors, stating, “Every dollar spent is an investment in stability and the hope of a new and harmonious region.” He further emphasized the initiative's potential, adding, “The Board of Peace is showing how a better future can be built right here in this room.”
Gap Between Pledges and Estimated Reconstruction Needs
Despite the significant financial commitments, the pledged dollars represent only a fraction of the estimated $70 billion required to rebuild Gaza, highlighting the immense scale of destruction and the long-term challenges ahead for recovery and stabilization.
Details of the International Stabilization Force
Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers, leader of the newly-created International Stabilization Force, outlined plans calling for 12,000 police and 20,000 soldiers to be deployed in Gaza. He remarked, “With these first steps, we help bring the security that Gaza needs for a future of prosperity and enduring peace.”
Board of Peace as Part of Trump's 20-Point Gaza Plan
The Board of Peace was initiated as a key component of President Trump's 20-point peace plan designed to end the conflict in Gaza. In response to criticism, Trump defended the creation of the board, arguing it would enhance the viability of the United Nations in the future. He stated, “Someday I won’t be here. The United Nations will be. I think it is going to be much stronger, and the Board of Peace is going to almost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properly.”
International Participation and Observers
More than 40 countries and the European Union confirmed they were sending officials to Thursday’s meeting. Notably, countries such as Germany, Italy, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom are among over a dozen nations that have not joined the board but are participating as observers. Trump predicted broader acceptance, saying, “Almost everybody’s accepted, and the ones that haven’t, will be. And some are playing a little cute—it doesn’t work. You can’t play cute with me.”
