WASHINGTON D.C January 22, 2026 – In a bold move aimed at fostering lasting peace in the Middle East, President Donald J. Trump announced the establishment of the “Board of Peace” during a signing ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22. The initiative, initially focused on overseeing the reconstruction and demilitarization of Gaza following a two-year conflict, has drawn both praise for its ambitious vision and criticism for potentially undermining established international bodies like the United Nations.
The announcement came via a thread on X (formerly Twitter) from the official White House account, featuring a quote from President Trump: “The first steps toward a brighter day for the Middle East, and a much safer future for the world are unfolding right before your very eyes.” Accompanying images outlined a 20-point plan transitioning Gaza from war to prosperity, including ceasefire enforcement, hostage releases, historic humanitarian aid, security measures, deradicalization efforts, free market economic reforms, and large-scale reconstruction
Key elements of the plan include:
- Humanitarian Aid: Achieving 100% coverage of basic food needs for the first time since 2023, with 55,000 trucks delivering 1.4 million pallets of supplies (averaging 4,200 trucks per week).
- Demilitarization Principles: Establishing a single civilian authority (initially the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, or NCAG), monopolizing force under one law, decommissioning heavy weapons and tunnels, and offering amnesty for disarmament. The process is to be Palestinian-led but internationally verified, unlocking investments only in fully demilitarized sectors.
- Reconstruction and Economic Development: Visions for “New Rafah” and “New Gaza” feature over 100,000 permanent housing units, 200+ education centers, 180+ cultural and vocational facilities, and 75+ medical centers. Coastal tourism, transportation hubs, energy infrastructure, and digital advancements are projected to boost Gaza’s GDP to over $10 billion by 2035, creating 500,000+ new jobs in construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Average household income is expected to reach $13,000+ annually, supported by $25 billion in utility investments, $1.5 billion in vocational training, and $3 billion in commercial zones.
The Board of Peace, chaired by President Trump, was formalized with a founding charter signed by leaders from at least 35 countries, including Middle Eastern powers like Israel, Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. According to White House statements, the board will provide strategic oversight, mobilize resources, and ensure accountability in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025), which endorsed Trump’s comprehensive plan.
However, the launch has sparked controversy. No major European Union allies, such as Germany, France, or the UK, have joined, citing concerns that the board could rival the UN’s role in global diplomacy. Reuters reported that some fear it might sideline the international body, despite Trump’s assurances of collaboration. Al Jazeera quoted Trump as saying the board would be “very successful in Gaza” and could expand to other global challenges, adding to apprehensions about its broader ambitions.
Reactions on X were swift and polarized. Supporters hailed it as a historic step toward peace, but critics labeled it “propaganda” and questioned its sincerity amid ongoing reports of violence. One user, @amitylee13, asked, “Does this mean Israel will finally stop bombing Gaza???” Another, @AraquelBloss, accused the initiative of ignoring alleged atrocities, stating, “This is a f**g joke.” @abierkhatib echoed calls for accountability, arguing that “erecting skyscrapers over the graves of Palestinian children is not peace.”
Time magazine noted the absence of EU partners at the Davos event, while Fox News emphasized the signing as a pursuit of a “lasting agreement for Gaza.” CBS News highlighted Trump’s hints at wider applications, and The Washington Post described the global divide, with responses ranging from eager participation to cautious hedging.
The White House has positioned the board as a “transitional administration” for Gaza, with immediate focus on the next 100 days: full humanitarian aid delivery, infrastructure rehabilitation, temporary housing, and economic zoning to attract investments. Critics, including Palestinian advocates, argue that true peace requires addressing root causes like accountability for past conflicts.
As the initiative unfolds, the Board of Peace represents Trump’s signature foreign policy push in his second term, blending diplomacy, economic incentives, and security reforms. Whether it delivers on its promises remains to be seen, but it has already reshaped the discourse on Middle East peace.
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