Board of Peace inaugural meeting : Shared by Kul Gautam

In the rambling and patronizing opening speech of the Chair of the Board of Peace, and many fawning responses by Board members & others, it was good to hear DJT's reaffirmation of the "potential" of the United Nations and his implied support for it - both in his opening and closing remarks. 

Thankfully, this particular meeting focused on Gaza, and many Board members reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution (which was not even mentioned in the Board's Charter, in contrast to UN Security Council resolution 2803, which authorized the BoP).

The meeting also garnered the pledge of $17 billion (including $10 billion announced by USA) for Gaza peace and reconstruction. Hope something good comes out of these resources, not just for building contractors and investors, but for the people of Gaza.

Also interesting to hear and watch FIFA President Gianni Infantino's remarks, along with a short video clip (at around 2hrs 30 minutes into the video). 

Kul

Trump Announces $7 Billion in Pledges and Troop Commitments at Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting Aamer Madhani and Matthew Lee, Associated Press PBS NewsHour 

February 19, 2026 

Click here for the article

At the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington, President Trump announced that nine member countries have pledged $7 billion toward Gaza relief, and that five countries — Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania — have agreed to contribute troops to an international stabilization force. Egypt and Jordan committed to training police for the effort. Troops will initially deploy to Rafah. Trump also announced a U.S. pledge of $10 billion for the Board, without specifying its use. The pledges, while significant, represent a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed to rebuild Gaza. Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers, commander of the new International Stabilization Force, said plans call for 12,000 police and 20,000 soldiers. More than 40 countries and the EU confirmed participation, with Germany, Italy, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK attending as observers. Questions remain about Hamas disarmament, a key Israeli and U.S. demand, with Secretary of State Rubio acknowledging that "a lot of work remains." Trump defended the Board against criticism that it rivals the UN, saying it would instead help make the UN "much stronger."

"Every dollar spent is an investment in stability and the hope of new and harmonious [region]."

"Someday I won't be here. The United Nations will be. I think it is going to be much stronger, and the Board of Peace is going to almost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properly."