Feb 20 โ€ข 07:33 UTC ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

Trump at the First Meeting of the Peace Commission: 'Peace is the Cheapest'... $17 Billion Aid to Gaza

President Donald Trump announced a $17 billion aid plan for Gaza at the inaugural meeting of the 'Peace Commission'.

On the 19th of the month, Donald Trump convened the first meeting of the 'Peace Commission' in Washington, declaring an ambitious plan to raise significant funds for the reconstruction of Gaza, totaling $17 billion. Although the specifics of timing and methods were not disclosed, the initiative includes contributions from the U.S. and other member countries aimed at supporting Gaza. Trump emphasized the cost-effectiveness of peace compared to war, asserting that investing in peace is far less expensive than the costs incurred through conflict.

During the meeting, which was held at the Donald Trump Peace Institute, Trump stated that the U.S. would contribute $10 billion, while other member nations such as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Saudi Arabia would pitch in more than $7 billion. Discussions hinted at international stabilization forces and police being sent to Gaza by some member countries. However, key issues regarding the funding's sources, discussions with Congress, and the conditions under which the reconstruction of Gaza would successfully commence remain unanswered, raising concerns about the real intentions behind the initiative.

Internationally, Trump's actions have been viewed with skepticism, as many perceive this move as an attempt to supplant the role of the United Nations in peacekeeping. He made remarks about working closely with the UN while outlining his vision to oversee its operations effectively. The meeting was attended by over 50 representatives from around 20 member nations, with South Korea and other major Western nations participating as observers. Trump's comments included praise for Japan's recent commitment to organizing a fundraising event, suggesting that regional partners like South Korea, the Philippines, and Singapore would also be involved in future efforts to support Gaza's recovery and peace initiatives.

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