WASHINGTON, D.C. February 19, 2026 — President Donald J. Trump hosted world leaders and founding members of the Board of Peace for its historic inaugural meeting yesterday at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in the U.S. capital.
The White House announced the gathering via an official post on X (formerly Twitter), accompanied by a group photograph showing President Trump at the centre, flanked by dozens of international dignitaries in formal attire. The leaders posed before a prominent blue banner emblazoned with “BOARD of PEACE” and the institute’s new logo.
The Board of Peace, an initiative spearheaded by the Trump administration, was initially created to oversee Gaza reconstruction and stabilisation following last year’s ceasefire. Its mandate has since broadened to tackle global conflicts more effectively, with Trump describing the body as “one of the most important and consequential things” he will ever be involved with.
During the meeting, President Trump announced a major U.S. commitment of $10 billion to the Board’s initiatives, particularly for Gaza rebuilding efforts. Founding member nations collectively pledged more than $7 billion and troops for a planned 20,000-strong International Stabilization Force.
Attendees included Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and representatives from over 40 countries. The event also featured FIFA President Gianni Infantino among non-political figures.
The venue holds added significance: the former United States Institute of Peace was renamed the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in December 2025, a move Trump attributed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the gathering.
While the meeting drew strong participation from many nations, some major European allies were notably absent, reflecting mixed international reactions to the new body. Supporters hail it as a bold, results-driven alternative to traditional multilateral forums, while critics question its long-term structure and relationship with the United Nations.
The White House photo has quickly gone viral, symbolising what the administration calls a new chapter in global cooperation led by “the greatest world leaders.”
This inaugural session underscores the Trump administration’s focus on achieving lasting peace through decisive leadership, substantial financial pledges, and direct international engagement.
Life News Agency will continue monitoring developments from the Board of Peace as further details on specific projects and participating nations emerge.
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