In Washington D.C., under the leadership of President Donald Trump, the first session of the
Board of Peace
took place. This significant meeting aimed at revitalizing Gaza, bringing stability and lasting peace to its region. Representatives from more than 40 nations gathered to discuss and endorse a substantial financial commitment towards Gaza's future, totaling an impressive $7 billion.
This initial meeting witnessed participation from diplomats hailing from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the globe-at-large, underlining the international interest and commitment towards Gaza's peace restoration.
The board's objectives are clear: to rebuild Gaza, ensure the disarmament of Hamas, and create an international framework for post-war development. An agreement was reached to establish a reconstruction fund of $7 billion among nine countries. Furthermore, the United States pledged an additional commitment of nearly $10 billion, although specifics on the utilization of these funds for direct reconstruction efforts remain undisclosed.
Source: aajtak
President Trump emphasized the board's critical role as a platform for fostering peace and stability, marking a pivotal step towards building a brighter future for Gaza's citizens. He expressed gratitude to partner nations, noting that every contribution is an investment in stability and hope.
However, discussions unveiled that this financial commitment represents just a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed for Gaza's comprehensive reconstruction. The sizeable investment required signals the board's expanding ambitions, potentially engaging in resolving broader global conflicts in the future.
Notable Absences from the Meeting
The first meeting of the Board of Peace concerning Gaza was marked by the absence of countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, leading to some displeasure expressed by President Trump. He highlighted this issue during the meeting, pointing out that these countries have yet to accept the invitation to join the Board of Peace.
Source: aajtak
In his trademark style, Trump noted that some countries tried to handle the matter cunningly, but such tactics wouldn't work in his dealings. He described the board as the most prestigious and powerful group ever assembled.
What is the International Stabilization Force?
During the discussions, Trump reiterated that Gaza's permanent rebuilding hinges on Hamas's disarmament and positioned the board's tasks as complementary to the United Nations. In addition, commitments for deploying soldiers and police forces under the
International Stabilization Force
were discussed, with several nations pledging to deploy thousands of personnel.
Under this international initiative, five countries—Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania—will station their troops in the Gaza Strip.
