The Birth of the Board of Peace

At the signing ceremony for this new organization, the former U.S. president asserted it would become “one of the most consequential bodies ever created in the history of the world.” This initiative aims to promote democracy in America and bolster political strategies globally.

A Roadmap for Gaza

U.S. and Palestinian officials took the opportunity to outline steps toward implementing a ceasefire in Gaza. They discussed transitioning control of the territory to a Palestinian-run technocratic administration, which is being organized in Cairo.

Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, shared a 100-day action plan that includes significant increases in aid deliveries and the rehabilitation of essential infrastructure, such as water, power, and sewage systems. He also unveiled a conceptual map for a future Gaza with a unified structure instead of the current partitions.

The Opening of Rafah Crossing

In a dramatic moment, Ali Shaath, the Palestinian official designated to run the interim administration in Gaza, announced via video link that the Rafah crossing into Egypt would reopen. This marks the first time traffic will flow in both directions since May 2024, which he described as Gaza’s lifeline. Shaath emphasized this is a step towards rebuilding a capable Gaza that fosters freedom, opportunities, and peace.

Reactions from Israeli Leadership

These developments are likely to unsettle the Israeli coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is against a unified, Palestinian-led Gaza. Some ministers are advocating for the expansion of Israeli settlements in the region, raising concerns about the timing of reopening Rafah before the release of Israeli hostage Ran Gvili.

The Israeli cabinet was scheduled to convene to discuss the implications of these announcements.

Trump’s Vision and Global Leadership

Trump focused on his past achievements, reiterating his controversial claim of having halted eight wars. “We put out all those fires,” he stated, emphasizing the significance of the meeting. Leaders from 19 nations attended, including Vjosa Osmani, the president of Kosovo. Represented countries ranged from Saudi Arabia to Argentina, showcasing a varied political spectrum.

Concerns Over the Board of Peace

Diplomats have raised concerns that Trump may aim for the Board of Peace to overshadow existing international organizations like the United Nations. However, Trump suggested that both entities could coexist, each fulfilling unique roles in international relations.

The Board, initially created to address the situation in Gaza, may evolve into a broader geopolitical platform. When questioned about the possibility of the Board replacing the UN, Trump remarked, “It might.”

International Responses

Not all nations are onboard with the initiative. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the UK would refrain from joining the Board of Peace, citing concerns over the involvement of Russia in international peace discussions amidst ongoing tensions in Ukraine.

As the geopolitical stage continues to shift, the Board of Peace stands at a crucial intersection of foreign affairs, civic engagement, and global governance.