WASHINGTON, Feb 19 (GeokHub) — U.S. President Donald Trump announced that nations have pledged $7 billion toward a Gaza reconstruction fund at the inaugural meeting of his newly formed Board of Peace, an initiative aimed at rebuilding the enclave once Hamas disarms.
The meeting, held at the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, marked the official debut of the board, which Trump has positioned as part of a broader effort to recast himself as a global peacemaker.
However, major questions remain unresolved — including the disarmament of Hamas, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, the total size of the reconstruction fund, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza’s population.
Funding Pledges and U.S. Contribution
Trump said contributing countries had raised $7 billion as an initial installment for rebuilding Gaza, where damage from two years of war is estimated at up to $70 billion.
He also announced that the United States would contribute $10 billion to the Board of Peace, though he did not specify whether congressional approval would be required.
Countries cited as contributors included Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan and Kuwait.
Trump added that FIFA would raise $75 million for soccer-related projects in Gaza, while the United Nations would provide $2 billion in humanitarian aid.
International Stabilization Force
Trump said several nations plan to deploy thousands of troops to an International Stabilization Force intended to maintain security in Gaza once operational.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto pledged up to 8,000 troops. The force would begin operations in Rafah, under Israeli control, and aims to train 12,000 police officers while deploying up to 20,000 troops.
The force would be led by a U.S. general with an Indonesian deputy, according to officials.
Hamas Disarmament Remains Central
The disarmament of Hamas remains a key obstacle. Trump said he hoped force would not be necessary, adding that Hamas had indicated it may disarm.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Hamas would be disarmed “one way or the other.”
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said the board’s credibility would depend on its ability to ensure Israel adheres to ceasefire terms and allows reconstruction to proceed.
