Will Trump's Board of Peace Deliver $7 Billion in Gaza Relief?

The recent developments surrounding Donald Trump's Board of Peace and its contribution of over $7 billion (£5.2 billion) towards a Gaza relief package have raised significant concerns among the international community, particularly regarding the intended function and authority of the Board. As key Western allies, including the UK, Canada, and Germany, express reluctance to join the initiative, the focus shifts to the implications for Gaza's reconstruction and peace efforts amid ongoing conflict.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

During the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, President Trump announced significant financial commitments from several countries aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. These commitments come in the context of ongoing tensions following the deadly conflict that erupted on 7 October 2023. While the Board aims to facilitate the disarmament of Hamas and the reconstruction of Gaza, scepticism persists regarding its effectiveness and the broader implications for international relations and governance in the region.

Key takeaways

Trump's Board of Peace has secured over $7 billion in pledges from various nations.
Key Western allies, including the UK and Germany, have opted not to join the initiative.
The second phase of the ceasefire plan focuses on Hamas's disarmament and Gaza's reconstruction.

Timeline: how we got here

Key events leading to the current situation include:

7 October 2023: A Hamas-led attack on southern Israel results in about 1,200 deaths and numerous hostages.
Ongoing since 7 October 2023: Israel launches a military campaign in Gaza, leading to significant casualties and infrastructural damage.
November 2023: The Board of Peace is formed, with the first meeting held to discuss Gaza's relief and reconstruction.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

At the first meeting of the Board of Peace, Trump detailed financial commitments from several Middle Eastern nations, amounting to $7 billion for humanitarian assistance in Gaza. The US has also pledged to collaborate closely with the United Nations, addressing concerns about the Board's legitimacy in the peace process.

What was already established

The ongoing conflict has resulted in substantial loss of life and destruction in Gaza, with the UN estimating damages at approximately $70 billion. Previous efforts to disarm Hamas and stabilise Gaza have met with limited success, raising doubts about the feasibility of the current plan.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK households, the situation in Gaza and the broader Middle East impacts energy prices and international relations, which can affect stability and security. Increased humanitarian efforts may lead to shifts in foreign aid and international policy.

Businesses and jobs

The reluctance of major economies to support the Board of Peace may lead to uncertainties in trade and investment within the region. UK businesses with interests in the Middle East could face challenges if the situation escalates further.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may face pressure to reassess its stance on international cooperation regarding Gaza, especially amidst concerns that the Board could undermine the United Nations' role in peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.

Numbers that matter

£5.2 billion: Amount pledged by several countries to aid Gaza’s relief efforts.
72,000: Estimated casualties in Gaza due to the ongoing military campaign.
2,000: Initial applications received for a new transitional Palestinian police force.

Definitions and jargon buster

Board of Peace: An initiative led by the US to coordinate international efforts in Gaza, amid concerns about sidelining the UN.
Hamas: A Palestinian militant group that governs the Gaza Strip and is considered a terrorist organisation by several countries.
UN: United Nations, an intergovernmental organisation aimed at promoting international cooperation and peace.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, we can expect discussions to continue regarding the deployment of funds and the establishment of the transitional police force in Gaza. Monitoring Hamas's response will also be crucial as the ceasefire plan unfolds.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the situation develops, further evaluations of the Board's effectiveness and the impact of international contributions on the ground in Gaza will be key. The response from Hamas and the local population will determine the success of reconstruction efforts.

Signals to watch

Statements from Hamas regarding disarmament and control in Gaza.
Progress reports on the establishment of the new police force in Palestine.
Updates on financial commitments from other nations and the UN's humanitarian assistance.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about developments in the peace process and Gaza's humanitarian situation.
Understand the implications of international aid on regional stability.

Don’t

Assume that financial pledges will directly translate to immediate improvements in Gaza.
Neglect the potential long-term impacts of the Board of Peace on UN operations.

Checklist

Monitor news sources for updates on the Board of Peace's activities.
Evaluate personal or business ties to the Middle East amidst ongoing instability.
Consider how current events may influence future UK foreign policy decisions.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The effectiveness of the Board of Peace remains uncertain, particularly regarding its relationship with the UN and the actual implementation of plans for disarmament and reconstruction. Skepticism surrounding Hamas's willingness to disarm and the political dynamics in Gaza adds complexity to the situation.

Bottom line

The announcement of substantial funding from various nations for Gaza's relief efforts through the Board of Peace underscores the critical humanitarian needs in the region. However, the reluctance of key Western allies to participate raises questions about the Board's legitimacy and effectiveness in achieving lasting peace and stability in Gaza.

FAQs

What is the Board of Peace?

The Board of Peace is an initiative led by the US to coordinate international efforts in Gaza, aimed at facilitating disarmament and reconstruction amidst ongoing conflict.

How much has been pledged to Gaza's relief?

More than $7 billion (£5.2 billion) has been pledged by several countries towards a relief package for Gaza.

What is the role of Hamas in the current situation?

Hamas is a governing body in Gaza, and there are ongoing concerns about its willingness to disarm amidst efforts for reconstruction and peace.