Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza faces accusations of selling influence as reports emerge that nations must pay $1 billion for permanent membership in his ambitious Middle East peace initiative.
Story Highlights
- Trump chairs Board of Peace with over 60 countries invited to join Gaza reconstruction effort
- Argentina confirms participation while Egypt, Turkey, and Canada review invitations
- Reports suggest $1 billion contribution required for permanent board membership
- Board oversees demilitarization, governance transition, and rebuilding after Hamas conflict
Trump’s Gaza Peace Initiative Gains International Response
President Trump announced the formation of his Board of Peace on January 17, 2026, positioning himself as chairman of what Western diplomats describe as a “Mini-UN” for Gaza reconstruction. The initiative represents Phase Two of Trump’s 20-point Comprehensive Plan for Gaza, previously endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803 in 2025. Argentina’s President Javier Milei became the first world leader to officially accept, calling participation “an honor to confront terrorism.”
International Membership Under Review Amid Funding Requirements
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney is reportedly considering membership after discussions in Doha that centered on a potential $1 billion contribution to the peace effort. While no explicit “pay-for-seat” arrangement has been confirmed by the White House, sources indicate substantial financial commitments are expected from participating nations. Turkey acknowledged receiving Trump’s January 16 invitation letter, with President Erdoğan’s administration reviewing the proposal. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry confirmed they are examining President el-Sisi’s invitation.
Board Structure Emphasizes American Leadership
The Board of Peace operates through multiple entities including the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), led by technocrat Dr. Ali Sha’ath, and an International Stabilization Force commanded by Major General Jasper Jeffers. Key American figures dominate leadership positions, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner serving on the executive board. This American-heavy structure ensures U.S. interests remain paramount in Gaza’s reconstruction and Hamas’s dismantlement.
Critics Warn of Diplomatic Overreach
Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid criticized the initiative as a “diplomatic failure,” warning that including Turkey and Qatar could undermine Israel’s security interests. Lapid noted that Hamas retains an estimated 30,000 fighters according to IDF assessments, questioning the board’s ability to ensure lasting peace. The criticism highlights conservative concerns about empowering nations with questionable allegiances while Gaza remains a security threat. Despite these warnings, the White House maintains that broad international participation will accelerate reconstruction and stabilization efforts.
Sources:
White House Statement on President Trump’s Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict
White House announces members of Gaza’s Board of Peace
Carney in Doha for Trump Gaza talks
