Vatican Declines to Join Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace, Advocates for UN Leadership
VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has formally declined to participate in President Donald Trump’s newly established Board of Peace, an international initiative aimed at coordinating recovery efforts in the Gaza Strip following the recent Israel-Hamas conflict. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, expressed reservations about the board’s structure and emphasized the need for United Nations leadership in managing the region’s post-war rehabilitation.
Announced in January, the Board of Peace comprises nearly 20 countries tasked with overseeing reconstruction and humanitarian aid in Gaza. However, the Holy See, which traditionally maintains diplomatic neutrality and advocates for multilateral approaches to global crises, refrained from joining the initiative. Cardinal Parolin explained that the Vatican’s decision stems from the “particular nature” of the board, which differs from the framework of sovereign states and established international bodies.
Speaking to the Vatican’s official news service, Parolin remarked, “There are points that leave us somewhat perplexed,” and highlighted “critical points that would need to find explanations,” signaling concerns about the board’s mandate and operational transparency. The cardinal further underscored the importance of the United Nations playing a central role in addressing the complex humanitarian and political challenges in Gaza.
The Vatican’s stance aligns with calls from various international actors urging the UN to lead recovery and peacebuilding efforts in Gaza. The United Nations Peacekeeping missions and agencies have long been involved in conflict resolution and humanitarian assistance in the region, providing a multilateral platform for cooperation.
President Trump’s Board of Peace initiative, meanwhile, has attracted a diverse group of countries, although some, including Italy, have also expressed hesitation. Italy’s decision not to join was noted by Cardinal Parolin during his remarks, reflecting broader European caution toward the initiative’s approach.
Observers note that the Vatican’s refusal to join the board underscores the challenges of coordinating international recovery efforts in a highly sensitive geopolitical context. The Israel-Hamas war has left Gaza’s infrastructure devastated, and the path to reconstruction remains fraught with political complexities.
Experts emphasize that successful recovery will require inclusive diplomacy and adherence to international law, areas where the UN’s established mechanisms are considered crucial. The U.S. Department of State continues to support UN-led efforts while also backing initiatives like the Board of Peace to supplement humanitarian aid.
As the situation in Gaza evolves, the Vatican’s call for UN leadership reflects its broader commitment to peace, humanitarian principles, and multilateral engagement. The Holy See’s diplomatic influence, while often understated, plays a significant role in shaping international discourse on conflict resolution and humanitarian assistance.
For ongoing updates on the Gaza crisis and international recovery efforts, the U.S. Agency for International Development provides detailed information on humanitarian aid programs and reconstruction initiatives.
The Vatican’s decision not to join the Board of Peace may prompt further dialogue among participating nations and international organizations about the best path forward for Gaza’s recovery, balancing political realities with the urgent needs of its civilian population.
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