US President Donald Trump announced at the inaugural meeting of the newly established Board of Peace that a total of $7 billion has been pledged to a reconstruction fund aimed at rebuilding Gaza after the disarmament of Hamas. This announcement comes amidst ongoing conflict and uncertainty in the region, raising significant questions about the feasibility of the proposed initiatives.
Trump indicated that the contributions, including a commitment from the United States of $10 billion, represent only a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed to revitalize the war-torn enclave, which has suffered extensive damage over two years of conflict. The Board of Peace was first proposed by Trump in September 2023 as part of his strategy to resolve the ongoing war in Gaza, and he has since suggested expanding its mission to address various global conflicts.
The meeting featured a series of announcements, including a pledge from FIFA to raise $75 million for soccer-related projects in Gaza, and the United Nations committing $2 billion for humanitarian assistance. However, the Board of Peace’s composition has raised concerns, as it includes Israeli representatives but excludes Palestinian voices, leading to fears that it may undermine the UN’s traditional role in international diplomacy.
Trump emphasized the importance of strengthening the United Nations, stating, “We’re going to strengthen the United Nations. It’s really very important.” This assertion comes as tensions escalate with Iran, where Trump is preparing for potential military action unless a significant deal regarding its nuclear program can be reached within the next ten days.
The event resembled a campaign rally, featuring music from various artists and the distribution of red “Trump” hats to attendees. Senior US officials disclosed plans for an International Stabilisation Force, with contributions of troops from countries including Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania. Egypt and Jordan have also pledged to assist in training police forces as part of stabilization efforts.
Despite the optimistic pledges, the disarmament of Hamas remains a contentious issue. Trump expressed hope that force would not be necessary, stating that Hamas had signaled intentions to disarm. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforced this, stating that Hamas would face a choice to disarm either peacefully or through military action.
In Gaza, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem addressed the need for any international force to monitor the ceasefire and prevent further Israeli aggression. He suggested that discussions around disarmament could be possible, albeit without a firm commitment.
As part of the reconstruction efforts, a US-backed Palestinian committee has begun accepting applications for a new police force in Gaza, targeting residents aged 18 to 35. Reports indicate that around 2,000 Palestinians signed up within hours of the application process opening.
While the funding pledges and international support signify a potential path forward for Gaza, the challenges of ensuring peace and rebuilding trust between conflicting parties remain formidable and complex. The effectiveness of the Board of Peace and its initiatives will be closely monitored in the coming weeks and months.
