US President Donald Trump has unveiled a new international body called the Board of Peace and outlined ambitious plans for the reconstruction of Gaza during an appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Speaking to global leaders and business executives on Thursday, Mr Trump presented himself as a global peacemaker, despite scepticism from key allies and questions over the scope and intent of the new initiative.
The Board of Peace, which Mr Trump will chair, was formally launched with representatives from 19 countries signing its founding charter. The US president described it as potentially “one of the most consequential bodies ever created”.
Originally designed to oversee a ceasefire in Gaza and support post-war reconstruction, the board’s mandate has since expanded to include resolving international conflicts worldwide. This has raised concerns among critics that the initiative could rival the United Nations.
France and the United Kingdom are among US allies who have expressed reservations, while controversy has also followed reports that countries must pay up to $1bn for permanent membership.
The inclusion of Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose forces invaded Ukraine in 2022, has drawn sharp criticism. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has also been invited, said he could not imagine working alongside Mr Putin.
A major focus of the event was Gaza’s future. In a video address, Gaza’s newly appointed administrator announced that the Rafah border crossing with Egypt would reopen in both directions next week.
Mr Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, presented what he described as a “master plan” for Gaza’s redevelopment. The proposal included images of modern housing, hotels and seafront developments under the label “New Gaza”.
Mr Kushner said the project could transform the territory into “a destination”, while Mr Trump referred to Gaza as “great real estate”, a remark that drew criticism from some observers.
The US president warned Hamas to disarm during the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, saying failure to do so would lead to severe consequences. He added that he remained open to talks with Iran.
Mr Trump also said he was optimistic about reaching a deal to end the war in Ukraine. Mr Zelensky told the forum that draft agreements with Washington were “nearly ready”, though he described negotiations with Mr Trump as difficult.
The Ukrainian leader also expressed concern that recent tensions over Greenland after Mr Trump renewed interest in the Danish territory could distract from efforts to address Russia’s invasion.
However, tensions appeared to ease after Mr Trump announced a framework for future talks and dropped threats of new tariffs on European allies. Greenland’s Prime Minister said the island sought peaceful dialogue with the US and wished to remain part of Denmark for now.
Mr Trump said he expected around 50 countries to eventually join the Board of Peace, though its full membership and future role remain unclear.
