Davos, Switzerland — With the second phase of the US peace plan already underway, President Donald Trump has formally signed the launch of Gaza’s “Board of Peace,” an international body tasked with overseeing Gaza’s reconstruction.
Trump unveiled the board’s signed charter on the sidelines of the 56th World Economic Forum in Switzerland, confirming that he will personally chair the body.
The U.S. president was joined on stage by top leaders from 19 countries.
According to reports, between 50 and 60 nations were invited to join the board, with around 25 already agreeing to participate.
No representatives from Israel or Palestine were present at the announcement, although Israel has already signaled its intention to join the board.
Permanent members of the Board of Peace are expected to contribute one billion dollars each.
But reports also said these contributions are technically voluntary.
The Board of Peace was formally endorsed last year through a United Nations Security Council resolution as part of the broader US peace plan for Gaza from the two year war between Israel and militant group Hamas.
Beyond reconstruction, the board will also oversee the creation of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) aimed at maintaining security in Gaza.
However, during the ceremony, Trump suggested the board’s role could expand beyond Gaza, saying it may eventually address other global conflicts and crises.
TRUMP PRAISES DEVELOPMENT IN GAZA
On the other hand, Trump also praised the developments in Gaza, claiming the ceasefire is holding and humanitarian aid has been maintained under the first phase of the agreement.
However, the ceasefire agreed to in October has continued to falter.
The United Nations said that Gaza still faces severe shortages of food, water, medicine, and basic supplies.
Meanwhile Gaza health officials said nearly 500 Palestinians have been killed since the truce began.
Hamas has also yet to return the remains of the final Israeli hostage and continues to refuse calls to disarm — a key demand under the peace plan that Trump again raised during the event.
It can be recalled that the United States has already announced the formation of a transitional Palestinian technocratic administration, which will operate under the supervision of the Board of Peace.
The technocratic committee is expected to manage day-to-day governance and essential services in Gaza.