Trump's Ambitious Peace Plan: A New Global Mediation Board?

Controversy surrounds Donald Trump's proposed Board of Peace as part of a Gaza peace plan, with some European nations declining to join. The board, intending to mediate global conflicts, sees mixed reactions. Key Middle East players agree to join, while UN's future role is questioned.

Divisions emerged over Donald Trump's proposed Board of Peace on Wednesday as part of his ambitious Gaza peace plan. Many Western European countries, including France, Norway, and Sweden, have declined to join, reflecting concerns about the board potentially supplanting the United Nations as a global conflict mediator.

Approximately 30 nations are expected to participate, though 50 were invited, according to a White House official. While Trump aims to expand the board to a broader role beyond Gaza's ceasefire, key Middle Eastern nations like Israel and Egypt have confirmed their participation.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to join marks a change from previous stances, yet his coalition sees internal conflicts. Meanwhile, casualties continue to rise in Gaza following a ceasefire, highlighting the region's ongoing humanitarian crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)