Arabic version: ترامب يكشف عن تعهد بمساعدات بقيمة 7 مليارات دولار لغزة في اجتماع مجلس السلام
US President Donald Trump convened the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington, DC, announcing that nine member nations have pledged $7bn to a reconstruction fund for the Gaza Strip. Additionally, five countries have committed to deploying troops to an international stabilisation force aimed at the Palestinian territory. Trump’s remarks came during a meeting held on Thursday, where he also revealed that the United States would contribute $10bn, although the specific allocation of these funds remains unspecified. According to Al Jazeera, the funds pledged, while substantial, only represent a portion of the estimated $70bn required for Gaza’s reconstruction following extensive destruction from ongoing conflicts.
Countries such as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait have made initial financial commitments for the reconstruction efforts. Trump emphasized that every dollar spent is an investment in stability and a hopeful future for the region. He stated, “The Board of Peace is showing how a better future can be built right here in this room.”
In addition to financial pledges, Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania have agreed to send troops for the proposed Gaza stabilisation force. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced plans to contribute up to 8,000 troops to support the initiative. The force will be led by a US general, with an Indonesian deputy, starting in the Israeli-controlled city of Rafah, and aims to train a new police force in the region.
However, the disarmament of Hamas remains a contentious issue, as the group has shown reluctance to relinquish its weaponry amid ongoing Israeli attacks. A spokesperson for Hamas stated that any international force must focus on monitoring ceasefires and preventing further aggression from Israel. While disarmament discussions could occur, there has been no direct commitment from Hamas.
The Board of Peace was first proposed by Trump last September as part of his broader strategy to end the war in Gaza. Following a ceasefire in October, the board’s objectives have expanded to address other global conflicts. Despite its ambitions, the board has faced criticism for including Israeli representatives while excluding Palestinian voices. Reporting from Gaza City, Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud noted that Palestinians are seeking concrete solutions rather than mere financial pledges, emphasizing their desire to avoid past disappointments with international aid efforts.
Over 40 countries and the European Union sent representatives to the meeting, although several nations, including Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, opted to participate as observers rather than full members of the Board of Peace.
