Troops for Gaza and money top agenda as Trump’s Board of Peace meets
The Guardian World
by Andrew Roth in Washington DCFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US President Donald Trump’s ad-hoc Board of Peace has drawn significant international attention as he proposed a controversial plan to deploy a multinational force in postwar Gaza, backed by billions of dollars and troops from Albania, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Morocco. The initiative, unveiled during a meeting in Washington, aims to oversee the disarmament of Hamas and secure Israel’s support, though experts warn that these conditions make its success uncertain. Trump’s committee, stacked with autocratic and rightwing allies, has raised eyebrows due to its unconventional approach to resolving the decades-long conflict.
The plan envisions Gaza being rebuilt as a “riviera,” a term often associated with luxury and stability, but critics question whether such a vision is feasible without addressing deeper issues like Palestinian sovereignty and regional tensions. Trump’s proposal hinges on Israel’s cooperation, which has been lukewarm at best, given its long-standing opposition to Hamas and concerns over the credibility of the multinational force. Meanwhile, the involvement of countries with varying political agendas has sparked debates about the feasibility of such a mission.
The inclusion of nations like Albania, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Morocco highlights Trump’s efforts to assemble a diverse coalition, though some argue that these countries may lack the necessary military or diplomatic influence to effectively stabilize Gaza. The financial commitment, while substantial, is seen by many as insufficient to address the broader economic and social challenges faced by the region. As global scrutiny intensifies, the success of this initiative will likely depend on how well it can balance competing interests and secure widespread international buy-in.
This development matters because it reflects Trump’s bold approach to foreign policy, often characterized by unconventional strategies and a willingness to challenge traditional norms in diplomacy. While the plan may not immediately resolve the Gaza
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/19/2026