The inaugural meeting of the **Board of Peace**, led by **President Donald Trump**, convened on March 15, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Despite the presence of representatives from over **40 countries**, several key U.S. allies, including the **United Kingdom**, **France**, and **Norway**, chose not to attend. Their absence stems from concerns regarding Trump’s approach to utilizing the **United Nations** in global conflict resolution.
The summit took place at the **U.S. Institute of Peace**, where several world leaders, such as **Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán** and **Argentinian President Javier Milei**, were in attendance. The meeting opened with Trump playing his favored campaign rally songs, and participants received red hats bearing the slogan “USA.” U.S. officials at the summit included **Vice President JD Vance**, **Secretary of State Marco Rubio**, and **Jared Kushner**, Trump’s son-in-law and adviser.
During his opening remarks, Trump emphasized the simplicity of the concept of peace, stating, “What we’re doing is very simple — peace.” He acknowledged that while the word is easy to say, achieving it is much more challenging. The president described the initiative as potentially one of the most significant undertakings of his administration.
Trump is expected to reveal a multi-billion-dollar reconstruction plan for **Gaza**, a region that has seen extensive conflict. He announced that over **$5 billion** had already been pledged toward this effort, although he did not specify which countries contributed. Furthermore, details about a **United Nations-authorized stabilization force** for Gaza are anticipated, with multiple countries reportedly ready to contribute several thousand troops.
A senior U.S. official conveyed that the agenda for the meeting would include updates on various initiatives, such as humanitarian assistance and the formation of the **National Committee for the Administration of Gaza**. This committee aims to oversee rebuilding efforts and stabilize the region.
The decision of several key U.S. allies to abstain from the summit highlights the delicate nature of international relations and the potential implications of Trump’s approach to peacekeeping. As the meeting unfolds, observers will closely monitor how this initiative may reshape diplomatic efforts and the role of the United Nations in addressing global conflicts.
