UAE accepts invitation to join Trump's "Board of Peace"

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UAE accepts invitation to join Trump’s “Board of Peace”

January 21, 2026

DUBAI,— The United Arab Emirates has formally accepted an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump to join his proposed “Board of Peace,” the country’s foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

Abu Dhabi is among the first countries to publicly back the initiative, which aims to address international conflicts starting with Gaza.

The ministry said the UAE is prepared to “contribute actively to the mission of the Board of Peace, supporting greater cooperation, stability, and prosperity for all,” signaling formal alignment with Washington’s latest conflict‑resolution effort.

Trump’s plan has received mixed reactions from governments around the world. According to a copy of the invitation letter and draft charter, the board is intended to begin work on the Gaza situation and expand to other disputes.

Some leaders have offered cautious responses. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her country is “ready to do our part,” while Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated that Ottawa agreed “in principle,” pending additional details.

The invitation included a draft charter, raising concerns among some European officials that the initiative could undermine United Nations efforts.

Trump has repeatedly criticized the U.N. for not supporting his peace strategies globally.

Under the proposal, Trump would serve as board chair for life. Member countries would initially serve three-year terms, but could secure permanent membership by contributing $1 billion each to fund board activities.

The White House described this as a way to reward countries that “demonstrate deep commitment to peace, security, and prosperity,” according to a statement posted on X.

Hungary has also confirmed its acceptance of the invitation. Many other governments have remained publicly silent, though some expressed concerns privately about potential impacts on the U.N.’s authority.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepted the invitation on Wednesday, while Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has yet to make a decision.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister stated on Tuesday that Erdogan would soon decide whether to participate in Trump’s Board of Peace initiative.

The UAE’s participation positions Abu Dhabi as a key early supporter of a plan that could redefine international diplomatic efforts, though reactions worldwide suggest the initiative will face close scrutiny in the months ahead.

(With files from Reuters)