ROME – Political opposition forces in Italy are condemning their government’s decision to participate in President Donald Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace, arguing the organization weakens the United Nations and violates international legal principles.
The board will convene for its inaugural session in Washington this Thursday, focusing on reconstruction strategies for Gaza. Representatives from over 20 nations are expected to participate in the gathering.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who maintains strong relationships with Trump, announced Italy would join as an observer nation, stating Rome seeks involvement in American-led peace initiatives. However, most Western countries continue showing hesitation about participation.
During parliamentary discussions with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, Democratic Party legislator Giuseppe Provenzano questioned the government’s motives, stating: “How far are you willing to go in order to please Trump? You have answered this question: rushing to the American president’s court whenever and for any reason.”
While originally created to support Gaza’s ceasefire agreement, Trump envisions the Board of Peace addressing worldwide conflicts – a broader scope that concerns some nations who worry it could challenge the UN’s authority.
Several Middle Eastern powers have committed to the board, including Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, alongside major developing countries like Indonesia. A European Union representative will also observe the initial meeting, though Italy’s specific representative remains undetermined.
Rome has rejected full membership, citing constitutional conflicts with portions of the board’s charter. Italy’s constitution requires equal participation in international organizations, while the United States would maintain leadership authority in this new entity.
Centrist parliament member Riccardo Magi criticized the organization’s foundation, saying: “The Board of Peace is based not on democracy but on arrogance, not on law but on business,” referencing American proposals for residential developments and coastal resorts in Palestinian territory.
Foreign Minister Tajani defended against the criticism, arguing no viable alternatives exist for Trump’s Gaza strategy. “If anyone thought there are concrete, workable alternatives to this plan today, they would be showing they don’t know how to deal with reality,” Tajani responded.
