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Trump’s Board of Peace: A Potential Rival to the UN
Former President Donald Trump proposed the creation of a “Board of Peace” during his presidency, initially intended to oversee Gaza‘s postwar transition. however, the scope of this body, as outlined in a charter sent to prospective members, suggests a far broader mandate that could perhaps rival the United Nations and mediate in global conflicts. While the initial focus was on Gaza, the possibility of expanding its reach has raised concerns and questions about its purpose and legal standing.
Origins and Initial Mandate
The Board of Peace was initially conceived as a framework for governance in Gaza following Israel’s military operations against Hamas.A UN Security Council resolution in November authorized the board to oversee Gaza’s postwar transition .However, the charter’s language emphasizes a need for a “more nimble and effective international peace-building body,” indicating ambitions beyond the Palestinian enclave.
Expanded Scope and Powers
The charter, as reported by the Financial Times and Haaretz, grants meaningful power to Trump as chairman. He has the authority to appoint and remove member states, with a two-thirds majority required to overturn his decisions. The board’s decisions require a majority vote, but are “subject to the approval of the chairman,” who also has a tie-breaking vote. Furthermore, Trump holds “exclusive authority to create, modify, or dissolve subsidiary entities” to address specific conflicts, such as the Gaza executive board.
According to a US official, the structure includes a top-tier board of heads of state, a founding executive board, and specific executive boards for individual conflicts. This structure suggests the potential for the Board of Peace to encompass other peace deals brokered by Trump, such as the Abraham Accords, through the creation of additional executive boards.
International Reactions and Concerns
The proposal has drawn criticism and skepticism from international officials. A senior European official described the idea as ”very confused,” questioning the meaning of “membership” and whether it represents an alliance or a mediation body. Concerns center around the Board potentially undermining the UN’s role and authority.
Trump has historically been critical of the UN, even considering withdrawing the US from the institution
