Pakistan has been invited to attend the first proposed meeting of US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” on Gaza, scheduled in Washington on February 19.
According to the sources, Islamabad received the invitation as part of outreach to countries that have already joined the board, which President Trump launched late last month. The inaugural meeting is expected to focus on formalising the board’s structure, mandate, and secretariat, rather than operational decisions.
A senior diplomatic source described the session as crucial for shaping the body’s framework. However, he said it was too early to discuss any potential contribution of Pakistani troops to a proposed international stabilisation force for Gaza. Another source echoed the view, stressing that such matters would only arise after the board’s structure and direction were clearly defined.
Pakistan is among 14 countries that signed the Board of Peace charter on January 22 on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, making it a founding member. The board was first proposed in September 2025 and formally established last month. Under the charter, the US government serves as its official depository, while the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington has been designated as its headquarters.
Controversy surrounds new initiative
The White House plans to host the meeting at the US Institute of Peace, according to media reports. The initiative, which includes a potential fundraising component for Gaza’s reconstruction, remains at an early stage.
Trump, who will chair the board, has said it aims to resolve global conflicts. However, critics fear it could undermine the United Nations and existing multilateral mechanisms. While several Middle Eastern allies have joined, many Western partners remain cautious.
For Pakistan, officials say participation reflects engagement rather than endorsement, as Islamabad seeks to remain involved in discussions affecting Gaza while upholding its support for Palestinian self-determination and international law.
