Dozens of world leaders will gather in Washington DC on Thursday for the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, but major European allies have declined to attend, citing concerns over the organisation’s funding and mandate. The White House has indicated the summit will largely function as a fundraiser, with Trump claiming countries have pledged over $5bn towards rebuilding Gaza.
The board was initially formed to focus on Gaza’s reconstruction, but its mandate has since been expanded to address other global conflicts. However, scepticism is high, with expectations limited for both the Washington meeting and progress in the Middle East. The 100-day peace plan announced by Jared Kushner in Davos has stalled, and aid into Gaza remains minimal.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has declined her invitation, along with leaders from the UK, Germany, and France. Trump rescinded an invitation to Canada’s Mark Carney after a critical speech. The Vatican also announced it would not join, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin stating that the United Nations should manage such crises.
The meeting will be attended by delegations from Israel, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan, Qatar, and other nations with less direct involvement in the conflict, such as Argentina, Paraguay, Hungary, and Kazakhstan. Many are seen as seeking favour with the Trump administration. Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu will skip the meeting, sending Foreign Minister Gideon Saar instead.
Critics question the board’s ability to resolve key issues in the Israel-Gaza conflict, including governance, security, and humanitarian needs. Aaron David Miller, a former US diplomat, noted that pledges are one thing, but delivering is another. Max Rodenbeck of the International Crisis Group warned that without fast, tangible improvements, the initiative’s credibility will quickly crumble.
