Trump formally launches controversial ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza in Davos ceremony

Donald Trump formally launched his ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza at a signing ceremony in Davos on Thursday, despite backlash over the invitation of Vladimir Putin and Benjamin Netanyahu.

The US president signed the document on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum at a ceremony attended by Tony Blair, who was controversially named on the board.

Trump has invited dozens of world leaders to join the initiative, which has been rejected by Washington’s allies including Sir Keir Starmer, who said on Thursday that the UK would not sign the agreement. France and Germany have also declined.

Concerns have been raised by European nations over the unexpected invitation extended to Putin, who has waged a brutal war in Ukraine since February 2022. There has also been anger among Arab states over the inclusion of Netanyahu, whose war in Gaza has led to the deaths of 72,000 Palestinians.

Russia said late on Wednesday it was studying the proposal after Trump said it would join.

Around 35 countries have committed to join including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Turkey and Belarus.

More to follow…

Source: independent.co.uk