India Attends Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace Meet as Observer Nation

India participated as an observer in the inaugural meeting of the United States-led Board of Peace initiative on Gaza, signalling diplomatic engagement while stopping short of formally joining the group. The meeting, held in Washington, focused on post-conflict reconstruction and long-term peace efforts in the Gaza Strip.

India was represented by Namgya Khampa, Charge d’affaires at the Indian Embassy in Washington DC. Officials clarified that New Delhi attended in an observer capacity and has not formally joined the initiative, which has been presented as a framework to support Gaza’s rebuilding and stability.

The Board of Peace, unveiled earlier this year under the leadership of US President Donald Trump, includes 27 participating countries along with Israel. Members include nations from multiple regions, such as Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Hungary, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Palestinian representatives are not part of the grouping.

During the meeting, Trump announced a commitment of $10 billion toward Gaza’s reconstruction. However, details regarding the funding source and whether legislative approval would be required were not specified. Estimates suggest rebuilding Gaza after prolonged conflict could cost up to $70 billion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among global leaders invited to join the initiative when it was proposed during the later phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire process. India did not attend the launch ceremony held earlier in Davos, where the platform was introduced as a mechanism to promote lasting peace and reconstruction.

The initiative has drawn global attention due to its positioning as a potential alternative diplomatic mechanism alongside existing international institutions. Trump has suggested the platform could address not only Gaza’s recovery but also other global conflict zones.

Key challenges discussed include disarmament of militant groups, withdrawal of troops, determining funding mechanisms, rebuilding infrastructure, and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches civilians effectively.

The meeting took place amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing geopolitical concerns in West Asia. The United States has warned of potential military action related to Iran’s nuclear programme while increasing its military presence in the region. At the same time, Washington has emphasised diplomatic efforts aimed at maintaining ceasefire stability and promoting peace.

Trump has projected the Board of Peace as part of broader efforts to stabilise Gaza following a fragile ceasefire that ended months of intense conflict. He expressed hope that armed groups would disarm voluntarily, while acknowledging uncertainty about future developments.

India’s participation as an observer reflects its balanced diplomatic approach in West Asia, where it maintains strategic relations with multiple stakeholders. By engaging without formal membership, India signals support for peace and reconstruction efforts while retaining flexibility in its foreign policy stance.

As discussions continue, the Board of Peace is expected to shape international cooperation on Gaza’s reconstruction and broader regional stability initiatives.