France Rejects Trump’s $1 Billion ‘Peace Board’ Invitation

US President Donald Trump has proposed a controversial initiative called the “Board of Peace,” intended to facilitate the reconstruction of war-torn Gaza, with a staggering membership fee of $1 billion. However, France has announced its decision to decline the invitation to join this board, citing significant concerns over its implications.

A source close to French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed on Monday that France “does not intend to answer favourably” to the invitation. The proposed board’s charter appears to extend beyond Gaza, raising questions about its alignment with established principles of international governance, particularly those upheld by the United Nations (UN).

The French government has emphasized its commitment to the UN, which it regards as the cornerstone of effective multilateralism. In a statement released earlier, the French Foreign Ministry reiterated that “international law, the sovereign equality of states, and the peaceful settlement of disputes prevail over arbitrariness, power politics, and war.” The ministry is currently reviewing the proposed legal framework of the board with its international partners, expressing concern that the project may broaden its focus beyond Gaza to encompass wider geopolitical issues.

The source close to President Macron acknowledged France’s dedication to achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, along with a viable political solution for both Palestinians and Israelis. This stance reflects France’s ongoing commitment to maintaining stability in the region, even as it distances itself from Trump’s initiative.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, France’s rejection of the “Board of Peace” underscores its cautious approach to international diplomacy. The French administration is keen to uphold the integrity of UN principles, which it believes are critical to preventing further conflict and ensuring equitable resolutions in the region.

Trump’s proposal for the board, while ambitious, has been met with skepticism not only from France but also from various international observers. The initiative’s hefty membership fee and its expansive scope have prompted debates about the effectiveness and motivations behind such a project, especially in a context marked by longstanding tensions and humanitarian crises.

France’s firm position signals a broader reluctance among nations to engage with unilateral initiatives that may undermine established international frameworks. As discussions continue, the future of the “Board of Peace” remains uncertain, with potential implications for international relations and efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East.