Trump kicks off his ‘Board of Peace,’ as war clouds loom over Iran
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US President Donald Trump announced a new initiative, the "Board of Peace," with an initial $10 billion commitment aimed at addressing conflicts in regions like Gaza. The organization, which has drawn criticism for its lack of transparency and unclear funding plans, was launched as US military forces moved closer to Iran, raising tensions in the region.
The Board of Peace is designed to focus on rebuilding Gaza, which has been devastated by years of conflict between Hamas and Israel. Trump emphasized the potential for lasting peace in the region but did not provide specific details on how the funds would be allocated or managed. The initiative has faced skepticism due to its opaque nature and the fact that Trump retains veto power over the board, even after leaving office.
The timing of the announcement coincides with increasing US military presence near Iran, as Trump continues to escalate tensions with Tehran. Critics argue that the Board of Peace is an attempt to shift focus away from Iran while diverting attention from his administration's broader foreign policy challenges. The initiative has also been controversial due to its reliance on foreign aid, which Trump has previously sought to reduce.
Despite these criticisms, Trump remains a key figure in shaping global security dynamics. His announcement highlights the potential for US involvement in both Gaza and Iran, with implications for regional stability and international relations. As the world watches, the success of the Board of Peace will depend on its ability to deliver tangible results while addressing concerns about accountability and transparency.
This move by Trump underscores the complexities of US foreign policy and its impact on global hotspots. The combination of military action and peace initiatives reflects a broader strategy to assert American influence in key regions, but it also raises questions about long-term effectiveness and sustainability. For readers interested in international affairs, understanding the motivations behind such actions and their potential outcomes is crucial to grasping the evolving landscape of world politics.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026