Pledges Announced for War-Ravaged Gaza
President Donald Trump announced on Sunday, February 15, 2026, that his recently established Board of Peace has secured over $5 billion in pledges aimed at the reconstruction of war-ravaged Gaza. The commitments also include provisions for thousands of personnel to join an international stabilization force and local police units for the territory. These pledges are scheduled to be formally unveiled at the Board of Peace's inaugural meeting, set to take place in Washington on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace.
The Board of Peace and its Mandate
The Board of Peace, an international organization chaired by Donald Trump, was formally established in January 2026 on the sidelines of the 56th World Economic Forum in Davos, following its proposal in September 2025. Its creation received endorsement through a United Nations Security Council resolution. Trump stated that the Board of Peace 'will prove to be the most consequential International Body in History,' and he is honored to serve as its Chairman. The board's mandate includes promoting stability, restoring dependable governance, and securing enduring peace in conflict-affected areas, with a specific focus on the Israel-Hamas War in the Gaza Strip.
International Contributions and Conditions
While President Trump did not specify which nations have made the $5 billion pledges for reconstruction, reports indicate that more than 20 countries have joined the initiative, including significant regional powers such as Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Israel. The United States is also reportedly planning a substantial donation, with other nations like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait aiming for contributions of approximately $1.25 billion each.
A notable commitment comes from Indonesia's military, which announced its readiness to deploy up to 8,000 troops by the end of June for a humanitarian and peace mission in Gaza. However, Indonesia has stipulated conditions for its involvement, including a non-combat mandate focused on humanitarian aid, civilian protection, and reconstruction, with deployment restricted to Gaza and requiring the consent of Palestinian authorities. Membership in the Board of Peace for permanent seats reportedly requires a $1 billion contribution, a condition that has drawn criticism, with some likening it to a 'pay-to-play' model for international influence.
Context of Gaza Reconstruction Efforts
The reconstruction of Gaza is anticipated to be a monumental undertaking. Estimates from the United Nations, World Bank, and European Union suggest the total cost could reach $70 billion. The current efforts follow a U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal on October 10, 2025, which aimed to halt a conflict between Israel and Hamas that had lasted over two years. A key component of this ceasefire agreement is the establishment of an armed international stabilization force tasked with maintaining security and ensuring the disarmament of Hamas. However, Hamas officials have reportedly denied any commitment to full demilitarization.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
Another international body chaired by Trump? Sounds like a cash grab, not peace.
Leonardo
$5 billion is a joke when $70 billion is needed. Barely a dent.
Donatello
The $5 billion commitment is a necessary first step towards rebuilding Gaza after years of conflict. However, it's a fraction of the estimated $70 billion required, suggesting a much larger, sustained effort is needed beyond this initial push.
Katchuka
Hamas won't disarm, so this 'peace' is doomed to fail. Waste of money.
Michelangelo
The international pledges are a promising start for Gaza's recovery. Yet, the 'pay-to-play' model for permanent seats raises concerns about equity and genuine commitment.