Trump Invites India to Join ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza Reconstruction

In a new and unexpected move, amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the Middle East, US President Donald Trump has formally invited India to join his newly proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza. The invitation, extended directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi via a letter shared publicly by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on January 18, positions India as a potential key player in overseeing post-war governance, reconstruction, and long-term stability in the Gaza Strip. 

Trump’s letter comes at a time that India is trying to negotiate a trade deal with the US amid one of the toughest times in Delhi-DC ties.

The “Board of Peace” forms a central element of Phase Two in Trump’s 20-point “Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict,” first announced in September 2025 and endorsed by the UN Security Council (Resolution 2803) later that year. The plan, which has secured backing from leaders across Israel, Arab states, Europe, and beyond, includes a fragile ceasefire now in effect, the disarmament of Hamas, the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian committee for day-to-day administration, and international oversight to mobilize resources for rebuilding the war-torn territory.

In his letter to Modi, Trump described the invitation as “my Great Honor” to join him in a “critically Historic and Magnificent effort to solidify Peace in the Middle East and, at the same time, to embark on a bold new approach to resolving Global Conflict.” He highlighted the board as a new international organization and transitional governing body, initially focused on Gaza but with potential to address broader global disputes in the future. Trump would reportedly chair the board, with founding members including figures such as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

India joins a diverse list of invitees—reportedly around 60 countries—including Pakistan (despite Israeli objections to its involvement), Hungary (which has accepted), Vietnam, Argentina, Canada, Egypt, Turkey, Albania, Cyprus, and others. Some reports suggest a $1 billion contribution could secure permanent membership beyond an initial three-year term, though the White House has downplayed or dismissed such financial requirements as “misleading.”

The move underscores India’s growing global stature and its balanced ties with both Israel and Palestinian authorities. New Delhi has historically supported a two-state solution and welcomed the initial phase of Trump’s plan in October 2025, when Modi posted on X expressing hope for hostage releases and humanitarian relief. India’s non-aligned foreign policy, strong diaspora connections, and expertise in infrastructure and development (including through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance or past aid efforts) make it an attractive partner for reconstruction efforts.

Options for India

India has yet to issue an official response, with sources indicating the invitation is “in hand” but under review. New Delhi faces several strategic considerations:

Accept and Engage Fully
Participation could elevate India’s role in Middle East diplomacy, strengthen ties with the US administration, and open avenues for economic opportunities in Gaza’s rebuilding (e.g., infrastructure projects, humanitarian aid delivery). It aligns with India’s push for a multipolar world order and could counterbalance China’s influence in the region.

Accept with Conditions or Limited Role
India could join in an advisory or observer capacity, focusing on humanitarian and development aspects while avoiding security or political governance elements that might entangle it in regional rivalries (e.g., Israel-Turkey tensions or Hamas dynamics). This would preserve strategic autonomy.

Decline or Delay
Citing concerns over the board’s structure (Trump’s lifetime chairmanship, potential sidelining of the UN, or reported financial “buy-in”), India could politely defer or decline, emphasizing preference for UN-led multilateral frameworks. This risks straining US-India relations at a time of trade frictions (e.g., tariffs), but safeguards India’s traditional stance on Palestine and avoids alienating Arab partners.

Leverage for Broader Gains
Acceptance could be tied to concessions in ongoing US-India negotiations, such as tariff relief or technology transfers, turning the invitation into diplomatic leverage.

Analysts note that India’s decision will likely reflect a careful balancing act: enhancing its global profile without compromising core principles on the Israel-Palestine issue. With UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visiting India on January 19—amid the UAE’s own endorsement of Trump’s plan—the timing adds another layer of regional diplomacy.

The White House has described the board as essential for “effective governance to achieve stability and prosperity.” As consultations continue, India’s response could signal its evolving approach to Middle East engagement in the Trump era. Further announcements on board membership are expected in the coming weeks.