A heated conflict between the US and EU regarding Gaza's future has erupted, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticizing Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” as unaccountable and sidelining Palestinians and the UN. Spain’s foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, accused Trump of bypassing the UN’s original mandate for the board.
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Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Kallas highlighted discrepancies between the board's current charter and the initial UN resolution, noting the removal of references to Gaza and Palestinian involvement. She argued the board diverges from the UN resolution's intent, which stipulated limited duration, Palestinian input, and focus on Gaza.
US Democratic Senator Chris Murphy raised concerns about potential misuse of reconstruction funds, fearing they might benefit Trump’s allies instead of Palestinians. This revelation marks the first significant public disagreement over Trump’s plan, highlighting tensions surrounding Gaza’s ceasefire and the board’s upcoming Washington meeting.
Nickolay Mladenov, Trump’s appointee for Gaza, avoided controversy and emphasized the urgency of addressing humanitarian needs and decommissioning weapons. He stressed unity in Gaza for successful reconstruction and peace.
During tense exchanges with Kallas, US ambassador Mike Waltz defended the Board of Peace, arguing for a shift from the status quo and endorsing Indonesia’s troop contribution to an International Stabilisation Force. He insisted on reducing UN bureaucracy in favor of “focused multilateralism.”
Palestinian activist Mustafa Barghouti expressed concerns that Gaza discussions ignore the broader context, where settlement expansion threatens the two-state solution and the Oslo accord. This dispute underscores the complexities and geopolitical stakes involved in the region’s future.
Key Takeaways
EU criticizes Trump’s "Board of Peace" for excluding UN and Palestinian input.
Concerns arise over accountability and fund allocation.
Tensions highlight broader issues affecting Gaza and the two-state solution.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 13 Feb 2026
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