Trump's Iran Policy Risks Colliding with Gaza Peace Efforts

Potential military confrontation between the US and Iran threatens to derail President Trump's Gaza reconstruction plans

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A potential military confrontation between the United States and Iran looms, threatening to destabilize the already fragile situation in the Middle East and potentially derail President Donald Trump's recently announced initiatives for Gaza reconstruction and peace. The possibility of a US strike, which officials suggest could occur within the next 10 days, casts a shadow over the Board of Peace forum convened by Trump, designed to foster stability and aid in the region.

Why it matters

The timing of the escalating tensions with Iran is particularly concerning given the ambitious goals of the Board of Peace. A military conflict with Iran could divert resources and attention away from these objectives, potentially undermining the entire initiative to oversee reconstruction in Gaza and the deployment of an international stabilization force.

The details

President Trump unveiled the Board of Peace on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the United States Institute of Peace, outlining a $10 billion US commitment to Gaza's rebuilding efforts. This initiative, presented as Phase Two of his U.N.-endorsed 20-point peace plan, aims to oversee an international stabilization force in Gaza. However, the focus on Gaza appears increasingly precarious as tensions with Iran escalate, with the president signaling a swift decision point regarding further diplomatic engagement or military action.

  • On February 19, 2026, President Trump unveiled the Board of Peace and outlined a $10 billion US commitment to Gaza's rebuilding efforts.
  • During the Board of Peace meeting, President Trump issued a 10-day ultimatum to Iran to either resume negotiations or face potential military consequences.

The players

President Donald Trump

The President of the United States who unveiled the Board of Peace initiative and issued a 10-day ultimatum to Iran.

Jared Kushner

President Trump's son-in-law, who attended the inaugural Board of Peace meeting.

Gianni Infantino

The President of FIFA, who was the only non-political attendee at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting.

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What they’re saying

“We may have to take it a step further, or we may not. Maybe we're going to make a deal, but if not, it's going to be unfortunate.”

— President Donald Trump (archyde.com)

What’s next

The next 10 days will be critical in determining the course of events in the Middle East. President Trump's decision regarding Iran will have far-reaching consequences, potentially impacting not only regional stability but also the viability of his Gaza reconstruction plans.

The takeaway

The escalating tensions between the US and Iran threaten to undermine President Trump's ambitious plans for Gaza reconstruction and peace efforts, highlighting the delicate balance of regional dynamics and the potential for unintended consequences in the Middle East.