• Trump is seeking at least $1 billion from nations to retain membership in his proposed Board of Peace.
• The initiative aims to address conflicts beyond Gaza and create a long-term international body.
• Critics warn it might serve as a rival to the United Nations, which Trump has often criticized.

US President Donald Trump is asking countries that wish to maintain a place on his proposed Board of Peace to contribute at least USD $1 billion. According to a draft charter seen by Bloomberg, Trump would serve as the inaugural chairman of this board, which is positioned as a means to cultivate international stability and governance in conflict-affected areas, with membership terms limited to three years unless countries contribute significantly within the first year. The charter emphasizes that each member state's term would be subject to renewal at the chairman’s discretion, incorporating a veto power for Trump regarding membership decisions, according to SCMP and Middle East Eye.

Initially conceived as a part of the ceasefire agreement for Gaza, Trump's board reportedly aims for a broader mandate to address global conflicts. The draft portrays the board as a necessary evolution from existing international structures, positing that "durable peace requires pragmatic judgment" and challenging conventional approaches that have historically fallen short, as discussed in Al Jazeera and India Times.

Notably, international response has been mixed, with several nations criticizing the outlined requirements. Concerns have been expressed regarding Trump's potential control over the funds raised, which many believe deviates from standard international financial governance. This sentiment was confirmed by sources who indicated that Trump's direct management of contributions would likely deter many potential members, according to Middle East Eye and SCMP.

The board aims to convene regularly and fulfill lofty goals under the framework of restoring governance and managing investments in conflict regions. Trump has already sent invitations to notable leaders, including those from Turkey and Argentina, a move that has sparked debate and resistance, particularly from those who view this initiative as sidelining traditional diplomatic efforts and the existing United Nations structure, as reported by Al Jazeera and India Times.