During discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper noted that Britain would continue to consult with allies on how it could assist peace efforts in Gaza without formally participating in the initiative at this time. She emphasized that, while the UK generally supports the broader US framework for peace in the Middle East, the Board of Peace presents intricate legal and diplomatic challenges.
According to the BBC, Cooper highlighted that the proposal involves a treaty-like structure that necessitates further scrutiny, expressing apprehension about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s association with a peace initiative, especially given the lack of clear progress from Moscow toward resolving the war in Ukraine.
The UK has received an invitation to join the board and remains actively involved in ongoing international discussions regarding its potential role in the Gaza peace process, according to the foreign secretary.
Initially, the Board of Peace was intended as a small group to oversee a ceasefire in the Middle East, but its scope has since broadened. A senior US official, speaking under the White House’s ground rules, indicated that approximately 35 countries have agreed to participate, while around 60 nations have been invited.
Russia has not yet confirmed its participation. President Vladimir Putin mentioned that Moscow is still consulting with its strategic partners before making a decision, and he did not attend the signing ceremony held in Davos on Thursday.
The event featured several world leaders, including Argentina’s President Javier Milei and Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, alongside President Trump.
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The discussions occur amidst strained relations between the US and certain European nations following recent tariff threats from Washington. However, President Trump later indicated a pause on the proposed measures after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Davos, where they talked about a framework for future Arctic security cooperation.
While addressing delegates, President Trump suggested that the Board of Peace might ultimately expand its role globally beyond Gaza and criticized the United Nations for what he termed an inadequate response to conflicts around the world.
