Board of Peace Launched at Davos to Guide Gaza Reconstruction Donald Trump unveiled the Board of Peace at the Davos forum on 23 January 2026, presenting it as the diplomatic and economic engine for Gaza’s post‑war transition [2]. The initiative sent invitations to roughly 60 countries, with about 35 nations formally agreeing to join [2]. Permanent members are required to contribute $1 billion or serve a three‑year term, while the board operates alongside the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza led by former PA deputy minister Ali Shaath [1][2].

Belarus Accepts Invitation, Becomes First New Member On 29 January 2026 Belarus’s Foreign Ministry confirmed receipt and acceptance of the board invitation, marking the first formal acceptance after the initial launch [1]. The announcement appeared on the board’s official X account and positioned Belarus among a diverse roster that includes Argentina, Egypt, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates [1][2]. Trump hailed the development, calling the board “the most impressive and consequential board ever assembled” [1].

Several Nations Decline or Withdraw, Prompting Diplomatic Friction France, Norway, Sweden, Slovenia and the United Kingdom publicly rejected the invitation, citing concerns over the board’s charter and UN involvement [1]. Canada’s invitation was withdrawn by Trump in a Truth Social post earlier in the month [2]. In response to France’s refusal, Trump threatened a “200 percent tariff” on French wines and champagnes, heightening tensions [1].

U.S. Sanctions and Visa Freezes Complicate Participation The United States has placed visa processing freezes on Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Kosovo and Russia, creating practical barriers for board meetings in the United States [2]. Patricia Miller reported that two signing‑country leaders were unable to attend Davos because of pending war‑crimes arrests, illustrating how legal actions intersect with the board’s legitimacy [2]. Analysts warn the situation could evolve into a two‑tier system where some members engage fully while others remain symbolic participants [2].

Funding Structure and Leadership Emphasized in Early Rollout Trump positions himself as chairman of the Board of Peace, while Ali Shaath heads the related National Committee for the Administration of Gaza [1]. The board’s funding model relies on large contributions from permanent members, with the broader peace plan proceeding regardless of pending country responses [1]. Early governance and development work in Gaza are slated to begin under the NCAG and other executive boards [1].