U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled plans for a “Board of Peace,” inviting world leaders and prominent figures to oversee global conflicts.

Controversy erupted after reports suggested countries would need to pay $1 billion to join, a claim quickly denied by the White House.

The board aims to “solidify peace in the Middle East” and adopt a broader role in resolving global conflicts. A draft charter shared with invited leaders describes the Board of Peace as an international organization promoting stability, governance, and lasting peace in conflict-affected areas.

Trump would serve as the inaugural chairman, with member states serving up to three-year terms, subject to renewal by the chairman. Initial invitations went to leaders including Argentina’s Javier Milei, Paraguay’s Santiago Pena, Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Egypt’s Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Controversy over $1bln fee

Bloomberg News reported that nations might need to pay $1 billion to remain members. Reuters could not independently verify the claim.

The White House called the report “misleading,” emphasizing there is no minimum fee. Officials stated permanent membership is offered to countries demonstrating a strong commitment to peace, security, and prosperity.

Focus on Gaza

Trump initially presented the board as part of phase two of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The board is expected to oversee governance, reconstruction, and investment in the territory, including a technocratic committee named the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG).

The 11-member executive board includes former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, Jared Kushner, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and US special envoy Steve Witkoff. Other members include Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, Qatari diplomat Ali Al Thawadi, UN Middle East coordinator Sigrid Kaag, UAE Minister Reem Al-Hashimy, and Israeli-Cypriot billionaire Yakir Gabay.

The initial announcement drew criticism for excluding Palestinians and elevating staunch supporters of Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposed aspects of the board’s composition, claiming it conflicts with Israel’s policy.

Wider implications

The draft charter hints at a broader ambition to act globally, though a senior U.S. official described the expanded role as “aspirational.” Officials stressed the board is not intended to replace the United Nations.

Diplomats described the board as a potential “Trump United Nations” that ignores existing UN structures, raising questions about legitimacy and global cooperation.