Will the New Board of Peace for Gaza Expand Its Reach to Other Conflicts?

Former President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" is emerging as a new international initiative aimed at addressing global conflicts, starting with the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The board seeks to expand its mandate beyond just Gaza, potentially creating an alternative to the United Nations (UN) and signalling significant shifts in the post-World War II international order. This ambitious project looks to engage various world leaders in a collaborative effort to resolve international crises.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Trump's initiative is gaining traction with invitations sent to numerous world leaders, asking them to join as "founding members" of the Board of Peace. The letters highlight a 20-point ceasefire plan regarding Gaza, which has reportedly gained backing from the UN Security Council. This move marks a significant development in international diplomacy, with implications that could reshape how global conflicts are addressed.

Key takeaways

• Trump's Board of Peace aims to resolve not just the Gaza crisis but other global conflicts.
• Invitation letters have been sent to various leaders, including those from Argentina, Paraguay, and Canada.
• The initiative could challenge the UN's traditional role in international affairs.

Timeline: how we got here

Here’s a brief timeline of key events leading to the formation of the Board of Peace:

• 6 January 2026: The Coalition of the Willing summit in Paris discusses security guarantees for Ukraine, where U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are present.
• 20 October 2023: Trump announces the formation of the Board of Peace and sends out invitation letters to world leaders.
• Next Week: A formal announcement is expected during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent letters sent to leaders inviting them to join the Board of Peace have created a buzz regarding its broader ambitions beyond just the Israel-Hamas conflict. The initiative is seen as an attempt to create an alternative global governance structure, potentially sidelining the UN.

What was already established

Trump's administration has long been critical of the UN, branding it as ineffective and bloated. The concept of the Board of Peace builds on this scepticism and aims to establish a more direct and transactional approach to global governance.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The potential changes in international relations arising from the Board of Peace could affect UK consumers through fluctuations in global markets and international aid dynamics. As the UK engages with various international agreements, families may face shifts in prices and access to goods and services.

Businesses and jobs

For UK businesses, particularly those reliant on international trade, the Board of Peace might introduce new compliance challenges. Companies will need to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape and could see changes in hiring practices as they adapt to new international expectations.

Policy and regulation

The UK government will likely need to respond to the emerging influence of the Board of Peace, especially if it begins to challenge established UN norms. This could mean new consultations or policy shifts towards greater emphasis on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.

Numbers that matter

• 20: The number of points in Trump's ceasefire plan, which serves as the foundation for the Board of Peace.
• 5: The number of notable world leaders who have confirmed receiving invitations, including leaders from Argentina, Paraguay, and Canada.
• 1: The potential alternative governance structure to the UN, as proposed by Trump through the Board of Peace.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Board of Peace: A proposed international organisation aimed at resolving global conflicts, spearheaded by Donald Trump.
• UN Security Council: A principal organ of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security.
• Coalition of the Willing: A term used to describe a coalition of countries willing to participate in military or humanitarian interventions.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, world leaders will assess the implications of joining the Board of Peace and how it might affect their national interests. The upcoming announcements at the World Economic Forum will provide clarity on Trump's vision.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, the Board of Peace may begin to establish its operational framework and delineate its role compared to the UN. This period will be crucial for gauging international response and potential pushback from established powers like China and Russia.

Signals to watch

• Announcements from the World Economic Forum regarding the Board of Peace.
• Responses from the UN and member states about the legitimacy and implications of the Board of Peace.
• Reactions from international markets to changes in diplomatic relations.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the developments surrounding the Board of Peace and its impact on global relations.
• Monitor how the UK government responds to potential changes in the international landscape.

Don’t

• Assume the Board of Peace will immediately replace the UN or significantly alter international diplomacy without concrete evidence.
• Neglect the potential implications for businesses and consumers arising from shifts in international policy.

Checklist

• Follow updates from international news sources about the Board of Peace.
• Assess how shifts in global governance might affect your personal and professional life.
• Engage with community discussions on international relations and their local impacts.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The Board of Peace's ambitions could face significant opposition from established powers and smaller nations that value the UN system. The potential for disputes over sovereignty and territorial integrity may arise, complicating efforts to mediate global conflicts. As the Board of Peace is still in its nascent stages, many details remain uncertain, and its effectiveness is yet to be proven.

Bottom line

The formation of the Board of Peace represents a bold move by Trump to reshape the landscape of international diplomacy. While its success remains uncertain, UK readers should remain vigilant about its implications on global governance and national policies.

FAQs

What is the Board of Peace?

The Board of Peace is a proposed international organisation led by Donald Trump, aimed at addressing global conflicts, starting with the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Which leaders have been invited to join the Board of Peace?

Leaders from several countries, including Argentina, Paraguay, and Canada, have received invitations to join the Board of Peace.

How might the Board of Peace affect the UN?

The Board of Peace could challenge the UN's role in international diplomacy, potentially creating an alternative framework for resolving global conflicts.