Donald Trump inaugurated the first meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington today, February 19, 2026, announcing commitments of over $5 billion from several member states. The initiative aims to “guarantee a bright future for Gaza and the entire Middle East,” according to the former U.S. President.
Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani is in Washington to participate, while the United States administration expressed “deep disappointment” at the Vatican’s decision not to attend. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that the Holy Witness’s absence was “profoundly regrettable” and that peace should not be a “partisan, political, or controversial” issue.
Trump, during his address, highlighted what he described as his administration’s successes, including economic policies and the termination of “eight wars.” He praised the leaders present, including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Argentine President Javier Milei, and touted endorsements he had provided to them. “Almost everyone accepted” the invitation to join the Board, Trump said, adding that those who had not would eventually participate.
According to documents obtained by The Guardian, the Trump administration is planning the construction of a military base for 5,000 troops in southern Gaza, covering an area of over 1.4 square kilometers. The base is intended to serve as an operational hub for a future International Stabilization Force.
The Board of Peace is creating divisions within the European Union. France voiced “incredibly explicit criticism” of the European Commission’s decision to participate, sending Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica as an observer, arguing that the Commission lacked a formal mandate from the Council and exceeded its authority. The Commission defended its participation, stating it was “the only credible path to influence the peace process in the Middle East.”
Italy, alongside Romania and Hungary, is participating at the level of heads of state and government, with Orbán formally joining the Board. The Czech Republic, Cyprus, and Greece are represented by their foreign ministers or deputy ministers, while Poland and Croatia sent presidential advisors. The Netherlands, Finland, and Austria are considering sending their ambassadors to the United States. Japan may send a special assistant to its foreign minister.
Minister Tajani emphasized Italy’s commitment to achieving a stable peace and reconstruction in Gaza, stating that being present as an observer, given constitutional limitations, was “the only viable path.” He added that Italy’s existing presence in Israel, with military and diplomatic personnel, underscored its interest in regional stability.
The Vatican’s absence from the Board of Peace has prompted questions from Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who expressed “perplexity” regarding Italy’s participation. The U.S. Administration maintains that the Board is a “legitimate organization” and reiterated its regret over the Vatican’s non-attendance.
