India is carefully considering an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump to join the "Board of Peace," an international body aimed at managing Gaza's post-war transition and reconstruction. The initiative, part of Trump's broader plan to resolve global conflicts, presents both opportunities and challenges for India, requiring a delicate balancing act.
Trump's invitation, extended to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a letter shared by the U.S. Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, describes the effort as "critically historic" in solidifying peace in the Middle East. The Board of Peace is intended to provide strategic oversight, mobilize international resources, and ensure accountability as Gaza transitions from conflict to peace and development, according to the White House. Its mandate includes disarming Hamas and overseeing the deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF), a multinational peacekeeping mission.
However, several factors make India's decision a complex one. First, the very nature of the "Board of Peace" and its potential implications for the United Nations' role in international conflict resolution need consideration. India, a strong proponent of multilateralism, will be mindful of upholding the UN's primacy and may hesitate to endorse a parallel process.
Second, the scope of the Board's charter is a concern. While the initial focus is on Gaza, there are suggestions it could expand to address other global conflicts. This raises the specter of the Board potentially intervening in the Kashmir issue, a long-standing point of contention between India and Pakistan. India has consistently rejected third-party mediation in Kashmir, and would likely be wary of any forum that could provide an opening for internationalizing the issue.
Third, India must assess the reliability and staying power of the Trump administration. Given Trump's history of unpredictable foreign policy decisions, there's no guarantee that the "Board of Peace" will remain a priority, especially if there is a change in US leadership.
Finally, India must consider the consequences of either accepting or declining the invitation. A refusal could be perceived as an affront by a "mercurial" US President, potentially leading to trade and diplomatic repercussions. On the other hand, joining a body with ill-defined goals and potential to impinge on India's core interests carries its own risks.
Despite these challenges, there are also compelling reasons for India to consider joining the Board. India has a long-standing commitment to the Israel-Palestine peace process and supports a two-state solution. Participating in the Board could allow India to play a constructive role in shaping the future of Gaza and promoting regional stability. Furthermore, India has critical interests in the Middle East, including energy security and a large diaspora population. Being part of the Board would give India a seat at the table and allow it to protect its interests in the region.
As of January 20, 2026, India is still weighing its options, carefully examining the proposal and consulting with key partners. The decision will require a nuanced assessment of India's strategic interests, its commitment to multilateralism, and the potential risks and rewards of engaging with the Trump administration's "Board of Peace".
