Nine Nations Join US-Led ‘Board of Peace’ Initiative for Gaza Reconstruction and Ceasefire Support

A group of nine countries from the Middle East and Asia have announced their decision to participate in a United States-led initiative described as a “board of peace”, aimed at supporting post-conflict stabilisation, reconstruction, and long-term peace efforts in the Gaza Strip. The announcement reflects renewed diplomatic engagement around Gaza following months of intense conflict and humanitarian distress.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar confirmed their intention to join the initiative proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The countries said their participation is focused on reinforcing an enduring ceasefire, facilitating reconstruction, and contributing to a broader political process intended to promote stability in the region.

Later the same day, Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed that it had accepted an invitation to take part in the mechanism, expanding the group of participating states.

Objectives of the Initiative

According to the joint statement, the participating countries expressed support for peace efforts led by the United States and outlined a set of shared objectives. These include strengthening a lasting ceasefire, supporting the rebuilding of civilian infrastructure in Gaza, and encouraging a political pathway that addresses long-standing issues through dialogue and international legal principles.

The statement emphasised that the ultimate goal is to contribute to regional security and stability while ensuring that humanitarian needs and governance challenges in Gaza are addressed through coordinated international efforts.

The “board of peace” is part of a broader policy framework unveiled by the White House earlier this month. Officials in Washington have described the initiative as a multi-layered approach combining diplomatic engagement, economic assistance, and administrative oversight during a transitional phase in Gaza.

Structure and Oversight

According to U.S. officials, the board includes senior American advisers and international figures with experience in diplomacy and post-conflict governance. The mechanism is expected to oversee a technocratic Palestinian committee tasked with managing day-to-day civilian administration in Gaza, including public services, aid coordination, and reconstruction planning.

The proposed structure is intended to function as a temporary arrangement, with the stated aim of stabilising conditions on the ground while longer-term political solutions are explored through international negotiations.

Mixed Reactions on the Ground

Among residents of Gaza, reactions to the announcement have been cautious. While many civilians continue to hope for sustained calm and improved humanitarian access, questions remain about how the initiative will operate in practice and whether it will lead to tangible improvements in daily life.

Several residents and local observers have expressed concern about the composition of the board and the involvement of external political figures, arguing that any effective mechanism must prioritise local needs and ensure transparency and accountability.

Humanitarian organisations have also stressed that reconstruction efforts will require not only funding and coordination but also unimpeded access for aid agencies and a stable security environment.

Regional and International Concerns

The participation of Israeli leadership in discussions linked to the initiative has drawn criticism from some quarters in the region. Critics argue that trust-building measures will be essential if the mechanism is to gain acceptance among the affected population.

At the same time, diplomatic analysts note that the inclusion of multiple regional powers could provide a platform for broader cooperation, provided that disagreements are managed through dialogue and confidence-building measures.

Since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire came into effect in October, intermittent violence has continued, resulting in further loss of life and damage to infrastructure, according to health authorities in Gaza. The fragile security situation underscores the challenges facing any peace or reconstruction initiative.

Path Ahead

Supporters of the board of peace initiative argue that coordinated international involvement is necessary to prevent further deterioration and to address the extensive rebuilding required in Gaza. They point to the participation of key regional actors as a sign of willingness to engage constructively, despite political differences.

However, experts caution that long-term success will depend on sustained commitment, inclusive decision-making, and alignment with international norms. Without these elements, they warn, such initiatives risk falling short of their stated goals.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the coming weeks are expected to clarify the operational details of the board, including timelines, funding mechanisms, and the scope of its authority. For the people of Gaza, the effectiveness of the initiative will ultimately be measured by improvements in security, access to essential services, and progress toward a durable and peaceful future.