Trump vows “brighter future” for Gaza at Peace Council summit

Donald Trump, the President of the United States, addressed the inaugural meeting of his so-called “Board of Peace,” emphasizing efforts to ensure a “brighter future” for Gaza, the Middle East, and the world.

He described it as a historic and decisive gathering attended by dozens of international leaders, saying the meeting was the most significant of its kind in modern history and stressed that, despite its difficulty, peace is achievable.

 “We work together to ensure the brighter future of Gaza, the Middle East and the entire world,” Trump said. He praised the council as “mostly leaders and unbelievably respected people, mostly leaders of Middle Eastern countries and countries from all over the world,” noting their generous financial contributions to regional initiatives.

Trump stressed the importance of diplomacy, saying, “There is nothing more important than peace,” adding that going to war is “a hundred times” more expensive than pursuing peaceful solutions.

Hamas role

Trump said that “the war in Gaza is over,” praising the ceasefire agreement that took effect in October while downplaying the continued violence, referring to it as “little flames.”

His claim comes despite near-daily 'Israeli' violations since the deal began, which have killed more than 600 Palestinians.

He added that Hamas is expected to disarm under the understandings reached, warning that it would face severe consequences if it failed to comply.

“If they don’t, it’ll be, you know, they’ll be harshly met,” Trump said.

At the same time, he said Hamas deserved “credit” for locating and returning the bodies of 'Israeli' captives held in Gaza.

Pledges from participating nations

Trump announced a $10 billion US contribution toward rebuilding Gaza, alongside an additional $7 billion rescue package from other countries. He described each dollar as “an investment in hope.”

He also praised FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino for working to raise $75 million for sports and development projects in Gaza, saying Hamas remained the only obstacle to lasting peace.

Additionally, several countries announced concrete commitments to support post-war arrangements in Gaza. 

The United Arab Emirates’ deputy prime minister pledged $1.2 billion in financial support for the initiative, while Saudi Arabia and Kuwait each committed $1 billion toward reconstruction and security measures.

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said his country would contribute personnel, including medical units, though he did not specify troop numbers.

Morocco’s foreign minister added that the country stands ready to send police officers to Gaza under the envisioned international framework.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced that Jakarta is prepared to deploy at least 8,000 troops as part of a proposed international security force aimed at stabilizing the territory.

Iran talks and US team

During his address, Trump highlighted the efforts of his son-in-law Jared Kushner and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in maintaining dialogue with Iran. “Iran is a hotspot right now,” he said. “They’re meeting, and they have a good relationship with the representatives of Iran, and good talks are being had.” He noted that achieving a meaningful deal with Tehran has historically been difficult, warning that failure could lead to serious consequences.

The remarks come amid reports of unprecedented US military buildup in the Gulf, which analysts say could be preparation for potential action against Iran, though administration officials have not publicly confirmed such plans.

Throughout the address, Trump engaged in a detailed monologue, introducing attendees and sharing anecdotes about his relationships with them. He praised his team, including Kushner, Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President J.D. Vance, calling them “the best team ever assembled.”