Italy has formally ruled out joining US President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace,” with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani citing insurmountable constitutional obstacles. Speaking on Saturday, Tajani said Italy’s legal framework prevents participation in an international body led by a single foreign leader, regardless of political goodwill between Rome and Washington.
Trump unveiled the initiative during the World Economic Forum in Davos in January, where 19 countries signed its founding charter. Initially framed as a mechanism to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction, the board’s mandate extends beyond Palestinian territory. Consequently, critics argue that its scope risks overlapping with, or even undermining, the authority of the United Nations.
Although Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is widely viewed as politically aligned with Trump, she acknowledged last month that Italy’s constitution posed serious barriers. At the time, she suggested that revisions to the framework might allow Italy and other European states to reconsider participation. However, recent remarks from Tajani suggest that such adjustments would not be sufficient.
Allies voice wider concerns
Tajani stressed that the constitutional issue leaves no room for compromise. “We cannot participate in the Board of Peace because there is a constitutional limit,” he told the ANSA news agency. He added that the restriction was “insurmountable from a legal standpoint,” underscoring Rome’s firm position.
His comments came a day after meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance on the sidelines of the Milan Olympics, highlighting that diplomatic engagement continues despite policy differences.
Meanwhile, Italy is not alone in its hesitation. Several close US allies, including France and Britain, have also expressed reservations. European officials remain cautious about the board’s structure, governance, and potential geopolitical implications. As a result, the initiative faces growing scrutiny even among traditionally aligned partners.
