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Trump's Peace Council Convenes Today: Participants, Absences, and Division in Europe

Published February 19, 2026, 09:22
Trump's Peace Council Convenes Today: Participants, Absences, and Division in Europe

Trump's Peace Council is holding its first meeting today in Washington, with the participation of 47 countries and the European Union as an observer. The agenda includes the disarmament of Hamas, the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, and ensuring humanitarian aid. Commitments of $5 billion for Gaza and the deployment of troops for stabilization are expected to be announced. The effectiveness of the Council is being questioned, as there are obstacles to negotiating with Hamas and distributing aid. The Council has been criticized for the cost of participation ($1 billion for permanent members) and its potential competitive relationship with the UN.