WASHINGTON: The first official meeting of the Gaza Board of Peace, formed by US President Donald Trump, commenced in Washington, bringing together diplomatic delegations from around the world.
Attendees took the historic opportunity to be photographed with President Trump. In his opening remarks, he praised Pakistan’s Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting their roles in conflict resolution.
“Field Marshal Asim Munir is a great man, an exceptional military leader, and a tough fighter. He helped prevent wars and save millions of lives,” Trump said. He also thanked Prime Minister Sharif, saying, “I like him very much. He appreciates my efforts toward ceasefire.”
President Trump claimed that his administration helped halt eight global conflicts, some of which had been ongoing for over three decades, and expressed confidence that a ninth would soon end.
Gaza and Board of Peace Objectives
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Trump criticized Hamas and described the region’s circumstances as highly complex. He stressed that the newly formed Board of Peace aims to work toward a brighter future for Gaza, emphasizing international cooperation for peace, reconstruction, and humanitarian support.
He acknowledged the participation of multiple countries, mentioning Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Pakistan, and stated that global leaders have gathered “solely for the cause of peace.”
Following Trump, US Vice President J.D. Vance and more than a dozen senior officials associated with the Board of Peace are scheduled to speak.
International leaders from participating nations will also present brief remarks on reconstruction, security, humanitarian aid, and long-term stability in Gaza.
US officials highlighted that the Board’s primary goal is to establish an international administrative framework to oversee post-conflict governance, humanitarian assistance, and rebuilding efforts in Gaza.
Despite its stated objectives, the initiative has received mixed reactions globally, with some observers labeling it controversial.
