By Shamsi Ali Al-Nuyorki*
The recent establishment of the Board of Peace by US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy and debate within the international community, particularly among Muslim-majority countries. The Board’s claimed primary objective is to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction and promote peace in the region. However, several concerns have been raised regarding its potential implications on global peace, security, and Palestinian rights.
First, undermining the United Nations and International Law
The formation of the Board of Peace may undermine the UN’s role in global peace and security, as it appears to bypass established international frameworks. Trump’s involvement raises concerns about his respect for international law and human rights, given his controversial policies and actions, both domestically and globally.
Second, concern on Gaza’s Future and Palestinian Rights
The Board’s plan to develop Gaza into a tourist hub, dubbed the “Riviera of the Middle East,” has raised concerns about displacing Palestinians and serving Trump’s global business empire interests. More importantly, the exclusion of Palestinians themselves from the Board certainly is a clear evidence of why I am suspicious that the Board marginalizes their struggle for independence and self-determination.
Third, concerns about Accountability and Legitimacy.
The involvement of Israel’s Prime Minister, a convicted war criminal, raises concerns about accountability, the Board’s legitimacy and integrity. In addition, the lack of focus on Gaza and Palestinian independence in the Board’s charter suggests that these issues are not at all at the Board consideration.
Fourth, it has some risks and implications
Surprisingly, major European countries have such as UK, French, Germany, Spain and others, declined to join, citing concerns about Trump’s motives and the Board’s potential implications. What’s also concerning is the possibility that the Board of Peace could become a conduit for Israel, with Trump as its chair, to persuade or even coerce member states that haven’t established diplomatic ties with Israel to do so. For instance, Indonesia has begun to show openness to establishing relations with Israel, even guaranteeing its security, using peace slogan as a justification. This is clearly a betrayal of the Palestinian people’s struggle for independence, with East Jerusalem as their capital, home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Conclusion
Given these concerns, Muslim-majority countries, including Indonesia, should reconsider joining the Board of Peace and prioritize Palestinian independence and sovereignty. The international community must ensure that any initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region respect international law, human rights, and the rights of the Palestinian people.
*A Proud Immigrant New Yorker
