Donald Trump wrapped up his Davos visit on Thursday after unveiling his new Board of Peace and presenting ambitious plans for what he dubbed “New Gaza,” positioning himself once again as a global peacemaker amid skepticism from world leaders.
At the World Economic Forum in the Swiss Alps, Trump described Gaza as “great real estate” while outlining reconstruction plans that include new settlements, seafront apartments, and hotels. The proposals, presented by his son-in-law Jared Kushner, were accompanied by detailed maps and artist renderings, signaling a bold vision for the war-torn Palestinian territory. The plan also calls for Hamas to disarm under the next phase of the ceasefire, with Trump warning that failure to comply would mean “the end of them.”
Trump launched the Board of Peace after expressing frustration at not winning the Nobel Peace Prize and accusing the United Nations of failing to resolve global conflicts. He described the board, chaired by himself, as “one of the most consequential bodies ever created,” with an initial focus on Gaza but ambitions extending to resolving conflicts worldwide.
The initiative has sparked concerns among key US allies, including France and Britain, over whether Trump is attempting to establish a rival to the UN. Countries interested in permanent membership are being asked to contribute $1 billion, and the invitation extended to Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose country invaded Ukraine in 2022, has been particularly controversial. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also been invited but expressed reservations about working alongside Putin, while noting that talks with Trump have been “positive” though complex.
The Davos ceremony featured officials from 19 countries, including populist allies like Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Argentine President Javier Milei, as well as representatives from Middle Eastern monarchies. Trump claimed he expects around 50 nations to eventually join, though full membership details remain unclear.
During discussions at the forum, Trump indicated a willingness to engage with Iran and expressed optimism about a potential deal to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Zelensky confirmed that draft documents to resolve the conflict are “nearly, nearly ready,” while also voicing concern that Trump’s previous focus on Greenland could distract from the war in eastern Ukraine. Tensions over Greenland eased after Trump outlined a “framework of a future deal” and dropped threats of tariffs on European allies.
The Board of Peace and the New Gaza vision showcase Trump’s continued ambition to assert influence on global affairs, blending diplomatic initiatives with the high-profile theatricality that has defined his approach to international politics.
