Board of Peace invited to meet in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 19

The first meeting of the newly formed international organization is planned in the nation's capital after 26 member nations received invitations.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The United States has invited 26 member states to attend the first meeting of the newly formed Board of Peace on February 19 in Washington, D.C. The Board of Peace was created during the World Economic Forum last month in Davos, Switzerland, and is focused on promoting global peace, particularly in the Gaza region.

Why it matters

The creation of the Board of Peace has been met with some criticism, as it is seen by some as undercutting the role and mission of the United Nations in ensuring global peace. There are also concerns that the meeting date coincides with the Muslim holiday of Ramadan, which could make it difficult for some member states to attend.

The details

The first meeting of the Board of Peace is planned for February 19 at the White House, and four nations plus the United States plan to send representatives so far. The Board of Peace was formed to ensure a lasting ceasefire and peace in Gaza, which has been enduring violence between Hamas and Israeli forces. The IDF has reported finding military hardware hidden among humanitarian aid supplies in southern Gaza, which is the type of incident the Board of Peace is tasked with preventing.

  • The Board of Peace was formed during the World Economic Forum last month in Davos, Switzerland.
  • The first meeting of the Board of Peace is planned for February 19, 2026 in Washington, D.C.
  • The Muslim holiday of Ramadan starts on February 17, 2026 and runs through March 19, 2026.

The players

Board of Peace

A newly formed international organization focused on promoting global peace, particularly in the Gaza region.

United Nations

The international organization that has traditionally been tasked with ensuring global peace, but which some feel the Board of Peace may be undercutting.

Hamas

The Palestinian militant group that has been engaged in violence with Israeli forces in the Gaza region.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF)

The military forces of Israel that have reported finding military hardware hidden among humanitarian aid supplies in southern Gaza.

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What they’re saying

“The United Nations is ineffective and has become more of a political organization instead of a peacemaker.”

— President Donald Trump (Axios)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The creation of the Board of Peace raises questions about the role and effectiveness of the United Nations in promoting global peace, particularly in conflict zones like Gaza. The timing of the first meeting also highlights the challenges of coordinating international efforts around sensitive religious and cultural events.