Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif joined world leaders in Washington for the inaugural Gaza Board of Peace meeting hosted by President Donald Trump, marking a major diplomatic push to stabilize the war-torn territory. The summit aims to supervise a fragile ceasefire and coordinate postwar reconstruction efforts that could shape Gaza’s political and security future. The outcome directly affects millions of Palestinians facing displacement, humanitarian crisis, and uncertainty after two years of conflict.
Sharif arrived in Washington on a three-day official visit to attend and address the high-level session at the United States Institute of Peace. Representatives from more than 45 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and Azerbaijan, are participating in what officials describe as a closely watched diplomatic initiative. The gathering comes nearly three months after the UN Security Council approved a US-backed ceasefire plan granting the board a two-year mandate to oversee demilitarisation and reconstruction in Gaza.
Read more: PM Shehbaz attends inaugural Board of Peace session
Despite diplomatic momentum, the ceasefire remains fragile with Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violations. Israeli forces have withdrawn behind a designated yellow line but continue to control more than half of Gaza’s territory. Critical disputes persist over Hamas disarmament, the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, reconstruction funding, and the steady flow of humanitarian aid. President Trump said board members pledged $5 billion toward rebuilding, though estimates indicate nearly $70 billion is required to fully restore the enclave.
Questions over representation have also surfaced as several major European allies declined invitations. The United Kingdom, Germany and France chose not to take seats on the board, while the European Union opted to send observers instead of members. Notably, no Palestinian representatives are included, while Israel holds a seat, drawing attention from diplomatic observers. Hungary stands as the only European Union country formally represented as a board member.
Read more: EU to join Trump’s Board of Peace meeting
Meanwhile, regional tensions continue to rise amid increased United States military deployments in the Middle East. US lawmakers have announced plans to introduce a war powers resolution to restrict potential action against Iran without congressional approval. Russia and Iran recently conducted joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman as calls for restraint intensify. In Gaza, humanitarian concerns remain severe, with reported deaths exceeding 72,000, according to Palestinian health authorities.