The president of the United States, Donald Trump brought together almost two dozen world leaders in Washington to inaugurate the "Peace Council", an initiative that seeks to address the reconstruction of Gaza after the ceasefire and to position itself as a tool to solve other global conflicts. The meeting marks a strategic shift in U.S. foreign policy, with a focus on security, disarmament, and reconstruction.
At the headquarters of the United States Institute of Peace, Trump formally presented the new body, conceived as an agile structure, with direct funding from member countries and real executive capacity. The initiative arises after the ceasefire negotiated by Washington together with Qatar and Egypt, which put an end to two years of war in Gaza.
Hamas disarmament and multibillion-dollar reconstruction
The second phase of the plan promoted by the White House is focused on the disarmament of Hamas, a terrorist organization responsible for the October 7, 2023 attack against Israel that triggered the subsequent military offensive.
U.S. officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff, maintain that there is progress and that the group faces growing pressure to lay down its arms. In that vein, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stressed that disarmament must be total, including the elimination of assault rifles such as the AK-47, which are considered both a symbol and a central tool of violence.
Trump plans to announce commitments exceeding 5 billion dollars for the reconstruction of Gaza, where a large part of the infrastructure was destroyed. The project includes not only the restoration of basic services, but also urban and economic development plans that could transform the area into a hub for regional investment.
Among the proposals, the creation of an International Stabilization Force is being considered. Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, expressed its willingness to contribute up to 8,000 soldiers if the mission is carried out. Its president, Prabowo Subianto, took part in the meeting after having attended the preliminary presentation in Davos.
