Timeline
February 15, 2026 — February 19, 2026
World
Timeline: How Trump's 'Board of Peace' Initiative Unfolded Over 5 Days
President Donald Trump's controversial 'Board of Peace' emerged as a new international body focused on Gaza reconstruction, holding its inaugural meeting in Washington, DC on February 19, 2026. The initiative promised $5 billion in pledges and sought to reshape global conflict resolution, but faced skepticism from key allies and criticism for excluding Palestinian representation while attempting to position itself as an alternative to the UN.
7 events · 4 days · 30 source articles
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Major
Trump announces $5 billion pledged for Gaza reconstruction
President Trump revealed on Truth Social that Board of Peace member states have committed over $5 billion for Gaza reconstruction and humanitarian efforts, plus thousands of personnel for a UN-authorized stabilization force. He announced plans for the board's inaugural meeting in Washington on Thursday, February 19. The pledges represent only a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed to rebuild Gaza after more than two years of war.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Israeli strikes continue killing Palestinians despite ceasefire
At least 11 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza, including five in the Jabalia refugee camp, highlighting ongoing violations of the supposed ceasefire. Hospital sources confirmed the deaths as Israeli forces continued targeting civilian areas, undermining the fragile peace agreement that the Board of Peace was meant to support.
Wed, Feb 18, 2026
Major
Key European allies notably absent from Board membership
As the inaugural meeting approached, reports revealed that of at least 60 countries invited, only 27 had accepted membership in the Board of Peace. Many key European allies stayed away, raising questions about the body's legitimacy and global reach. The board included controversial members like Belarus, which was under US and European sanctions for supporting Russia's war against Ukraine.
Wed, Feb 18, 2026
Moderate
Critics question Board's structure and Palestinian exclusion
Analysis and commentary emerged highlighting significant concerns about the Board of Peace. Critics noted the absence of Palestinians in top leadership roles and questioned whether meaningful change was possible without voices of those most affected. Experts suggested the initiative reflected 'a very MAGA agenda' seeking to institutionalize US power and potentially replace or undermine the United Nations' role in global conflict resolution.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Moderate
48 nations confirmed to attend inaugural meeting
A senior Trump administration official confirmed that 48 nations would send representatives to Thursday's meeting, including Israel and several Arab countries previously involved in ceasefire negotiations. The meeting was planned to focus on Phase 2 of Trump's 20-point Gaza peace plan, though long-term prospects remained unclear. Trump planned to run it like a Cabinet meeting, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, and former British PM Tony Blair among attendees.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Major
Hamas consolidation threatens Board's peace objectives
Reports emerged that Hamas was cementing its hold over Gaza by placing loyalists in key government roles, collecting taxes, and paying salaries, according to Israeli military assessments. This development fueled widespread skepticism about Trump's peace plan, which required Hamas to disarm in exchange for Israeli withdrawal. The continuing Hamas influence over Gaza's power structures cast doubt on the Board's ability to achieve its stated goals.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Major
Board of Peace inaugural meeting convenes in Washington
President Trump presided over the first Board of Peace meeting at the renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, DC, with representatives from more than 45 nations attending. The agenda focused on Gaza reconstruction, Hamas disarmament, and establishing an International Stabilization Force. Trump was expected to formally unveil the $5 billion in pledges and commitments of thousands of personnel. The meeting took place against a backdrop of unresolved questions about Gaza's future and ongoing regional war preparations.
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