Introduction

In January 2026, the snowy slopes of Davos, Switzerland, usually reserved for technocrats and financial elites, became the stage for a bold geopolitical maneuver. Former U.S. President Donald Trump utilized the World Economic Forum (WEF) to unveil a new initiative aimed at the Gaza Strip, reviving his long-stated ambition to transform the war-torn enclave into a “Middle East Riviera.” This vision, centered on economic reconstruction and international oversight, marks a significant pivot in post-conflict planning.

The announcement introduced the “Board of Peace,” an organization conceived by the American president to manage the reconstruction of Gaza following the devastating conflicts initiated by the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. This article analyzes the structure of this new board, the key international players involved, and the geopolitical implications of this initiative.

Key Points

Background

To understand the context of the 2026 Davos announcement, one must look at the trajectory of the Gaza conflict. Following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, the region underwent intense military operations by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), resulting in widespread devastation to infrastructure, housing, and the economy.

The Vision of a “Middle East Riviera”

Donald Trump has historically promoted the idea of economic redevelopment as a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His vision of a “Middle East Riviera” suggests transforming Gaza into a hub of luxury tourism and trade, similar to coastal destinations in the Mediterranean. This approach prioritizes economic incentives over traditional political negotiations, arguing that prosperity can foster stability.

The Vacuum in International Governance

The creation of the “Board of Peace” suggests a perceived vacuum in international governance regarding Gaza. While the United Nations (UN) has historically played a role in the region, the formation of this new board indicates a shift toward alternative, coalition-based models of administration. The White House described the board as an “official international organization,” positioning it as a potential rival or alternative to UN mechanisms.

Analysis

The Davos event on January 22, 2026, was a carefully orchestrated display of diplomatic alignment. The stage featured the “founding members” of the Board of Peace standing silently before Trump took the podium, symbolizing a unified front.

Leadership Structure and Representation

The Board’s operational framework was outlined during the presentation. Nickolay Mladenov, a seasoned Bulgarian diplomat, was appointed to represent the Board on the ground in Gaza. His role is critical for bridging the gap between international policy and local reality.

Simultaneously, Ali Shaath leads a team of Palestinian technocrats. This inclusion is vital for legitimacy, ensuring that the day-to-day management of the territory involves local expertise rather than purely foreign administration.

A Divergent Coalition of Nations

The attendance list reveals a complex geopolitical tapestry. The Board of Peace attracted approximately 18 leaders from the 60 invited countries, creating a coalition that bypasses traditional Western alliances.

• Western Populists: The presence of Argentine President Javier Milei and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban highlights an alignment of right-wing populist leaders supporting Trump’s vision.
• Regional Powers: Crucially, representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, Morocco, and Turkey attended. Their participation suggests a pragmatic willingness to engage with alternative reconstruction plans, even if they diverge from standard diplomatic protocols.
• Asian and Global South Participation: The attendance of the Pakistani Prime Minister and the Indonesian President underscores the global reach of the initiative. Indonesia, in particular, had offered to bolster the international force, though deployment timelines remain uncertain.

The “UN Rival” Dynamic

By framing the Board of Peace as a new international organization, the initiative challenges the monopoly of the United Nations in peacekeeping and reconstruction. This aligns with Trump’s broader skepticism of multilateral institutions. The “Riviera” fantasy serves as a marketing tool, promising a future of prosperity that contrasts with the stagnation often associated with prolonged UN administrations.

Practical Advice

For observers, policymakers, and analysts tracking the evolution of the Gaza reconstruction, understanding the Board of Peace requires a focus on specific operational metrics and diplomatic signals.

Monitoring the International Force Deployment

One of the most significant challenges highlighted in the Davos presentation is the deployment of an international force. While countries like Indonesia have expressed willingness to contribute, the timeline remains “highly uncertain.” Analysts should monitor:

• Security Mandates: Clarification on whether the force is peacekeeping, policing, or border security.
• Funding Sources: Who finances the reconstruction? The involvement of Gulf states like Qatar and Saudi Arabia suggests potential funding streams, but details are needed.

Evaluating the “Riviera” Economic Model

The “Middle East Riviera” concept implies a shift toward tourism and real estate. Practical evaluation of this model should consider:

• Infrastructure Feasibility: Assessing the current state of Gaza’s coastline and utilities to support luxury development.
• Local Economic Integration: Ensuring that the Palestinian technocratic team led by Ali Shaath can create policies that benefit the local population, rather than creating an enclave for foreign investment.

Diplomatic Engagement Strategies

Nations looking to engage with this initiative should assess the legal standing of the Board of Peace. Since it is described as an “official international organization,” understanding its charter, voting mechanisms, and relationship with the Palestinian Authority is essential for diplomatic recognition.

FAQ

Conclusion

The 2026 Davos forum marked a pivotal moment in the discourse surrounding Gaza’s future. By reviving the “Middle East Riviera” concept and establishing the “Board of Peace,” Donald Trump has introduced a distinct, non-traditional pathway to reconstruction. This initiative blends economic ambition with a coalition of diverse international partners, ranging from European populists to key Arab states.

While the vision promises a revitalized Gaza, significant hurdles remain, particularly regarding the deployment of international forces and the integration of local Palestinian governance. As the Board of Peace moves from announcement to implementation, it will serve as a critical case study in alternative models of international conflict resolution and economic redevelopment.