Board of Peace live: Trump says war in Gaza ‘over’ despite Israeli attacks
Al Jazeera
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Donald Trump announced today that the war in Gaza has ended during the inaugural meeting of his "Board of Peace," despite ongoing Israeli attacks and international criticism. At the summit, world leaders pledged $7 billion for Gaza's reconstruction and committed to forming an International Stabilization Force of up to 20,000 troops. However, Trump's decision to include Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russia's President Vladimir Putin on the board has sparked outrage, as both leaders face allegations of war crimes from the International Criminal Court.
The meeting, held in Washington, D.C., brought together global leaders to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has left thousands dead and injured. The $7 billion funding package is aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, homes, and essential services in the region. Additionally, six countries have volunteered troops for the stabilization force, though the deployment remains contingent on logistical arrangements and political agreements. The U.S. administration has not disclosed which nations will contribute troops or how long they will remain in Gaza.
Critics argue that Trump's inclusion of Netanyahu and Putin undermines the credibility of the Board of Peace. Both leaders have been implicated in conflicts that have led to widespread destruction and loss of life, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Israel's military operations in Gaza. Human rights groups have called the decision a step backward in efforts to hold world leaders accountable for their actions.
The situation in Gaza is increasingly complex, with humanitarian needs escalating as fighting continues. While the $7 billion pledge offers hope for recovery, experts warn that reconstruction efforts will require not only financial support but also political commitment from all parties involved. The formation of the stabilization force adds another layer of complexity, as it raises questions about its role, mandate, and potential impact on regional stability.
This development matters to global readers as it highlights the delicate balance of power and diplomacy in resolving conflicts. The inclusion of controversial leaders like
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/19/2026