Context:

The Trump administration is set to hold the inaugural meeting of the 'Board of Peace' on February 19 in Washington, DC, aimed at fostering international collaboration for peace, particularly concerning Gaza's reconstruction. Despite around two dozen countries signing on to the initiative, skepticism remains about its legitimacy and its potential to replace the UN. The meeting follows the administration's recent push for Phase 2 of its Gaza peace plan, which includes pressing for the demilitarization of Hamas, a key issue that remains unresolved. The board's mission has expanded beyond Gaza to address global conflicts, raising questions about its broader implications. Upcoming discussions may further clarify the board's objectives and the level of international support it can garner.

Dive Deeper:

• The meeting will take place at the US Institute of Peace, an establishment renamed by Trump, and is partly intended as a fundraiser, although specific details are still under development.

• Countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have joined the Board of Peace, but key European allies and Israel have been hesitant, with Israel not formally signing the charter despite initial acceptance of the offer.

• Originally focused on Gaza's reconstruction after a two-year war, the board's mission has evolved to encompass addressing global conflicts, which has raised suspicions regarding its intent.

• The US announced the second phase of its Gaza ceasefire plan in mid-January, yet has not disclosed actionable strategies for demilitarizing Hamas, a critical component of the peace efforts.

• Jared Kushner recently presented a comprehensive redevelopment plan for Gaza at the World Economic Forum, emphasizing a lack of a backup plan if Hamas does not comply with demilitarization demands.

• The upcoming meeting coincides with Netanyahu's scheduled talks with Trump in Washington, primarily focused on negotiations regarding Iran, indicating a complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the Board of Peace.