Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Attend Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting in Washington

Turkish Foreign Minister to Address Gaza and Palestinian Issue at Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is scheduled to attend the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, D.C., on February 19, 2026, representing President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced Fidan's participation on February 18, 2026, highlighting Türkiye's commitment to diplomatic engagement and multilateral dialogue for global peace and stability.

During the high-level gathering, Minister Fidan is expected to emphasize the necessity of continued efforts towards resolving the Palestinian issue. Diplomatic sources indicate that his address will call for an end to ceasefire violations and practices obstructing the uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Türkiye is also prepared to contribute to Gaza's reconstruction efforts and participate in international mechanisms aimed at safeguarding Palestinian rights and security. Furthermore, Fidan is anticipated to raise concerns regarding Israeli pressure in the West Bank, the expansion of illegal settlements, and settler violence, while reaffirming Ankara's support for a two-state solution as the viable path to lasting peace.

The Board of Peace: A New International Initiative

The Board of Peace, an international organization established by Donald Trump and led by the United States government, aims to promote peacekeeping globally. Its formal establishment occurred on January 22, 2026, when representatives from 19 countries signed its charter during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The initiative operates with partial endorsement from the UN Security Council through Resolution 2803, specifically concerning its mandate in Gaza.

Initially conceived to oversee the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Gaza's postwar reconstruction, governance, and Israel's security needs, the Board's mandate has since expanded to include promoting stability and peace in other conflict-affected or threatened regions worldwide. President Trump serves as the chairman for life. Member nations have reportedly pledged over $5 billion for Gaza's reconstruction and committed thousands of personnel to an international stabilization force. The inaugural meeting is expected to be held at the newly renamed Donald J. Trump U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington.

International Participation and Expectations

Türkiye is a founding member of the Board of Peace and holds a position on the Gaza Executive Board. While many Middle Eastern delegations, including those from Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Qatar, are expected to attend, several major European allies have declined to join the group, citing concerns over its funding and political mandate. Russia has also ruled out its participation.

The meeting is anticipated to serve as a fundraising round, with President Trump announcing pledges for Gaza's humanitarian aid and reconstruction. However, the initiative faces skepticism, particularly regarding the lack of Palestinian representation on the Board and the broad scope of its mandate beyond Gaza. Observers emphasize that the Board's credibility will depend on tangible improvements on the ground, especially concerning humanitarian efforts in Gaza.