The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has accepted an invitation from the United States to join the proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza, the UAE’s foreign ministry confirmed on Tuesday.
In a statement, the ministry said Sheikh Mohamed had agreed to participate in the US-backed initiative aimed at advancing a peace framework for Gaza. The development was first reported by French news agency AFP.
UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed said the decision reflects the importance of fully implementing former US President Donald Trump’s proposed 20-point peace plan for Gaza, which he described as crucial for ensuring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
However, the initiative has already triggered controversy. According to AFP, although Washington has invited several world leaders to join the board, permanent membership reportedly requires a financial contribution of $1 billion. The condition has raised concerns and criticism in diplomatic circles.
The move comes at a sensitive time, as relations between two key US allies in the Arab world—the UAE and Saudi Arabia—are experiencing some strain. Both countries are seeking to strengthen ties with the Trump administration through major investment pledges and business deals.
The proposed “Board of Peace,” to be chaired by Donald Trump, is intended to oversee and promote the implementation of the Gaza peace plan, though questions remain over its legitimacy, funding structure, and political implications for the wider Middle East peace process.
