Hungary accepts Trump's invitation to join Gaza 'Board of Peace' as founding member

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán confirmed on Sunday that his country will join the U.S.-led “Board of Peace” as a founding member, following a formal invitation from President Donald Trump. In a statement posted on X, Orbán wrote, “With President Trump comes peace,” adding that Hungary’s peace efforts were being recognized and that Budapest had “accepted this honourable invitation.”

Structure and Mandate of the Board

The White House announced the formation of the Board of Peace on Friday, outlining its role in fulfilling the 20-point plan to end the Gaza conflict and oversee the territory’s reconstruction. According to the administration, the board will provide strategic oversight, mobilize international resources, and ensure accountability during Gaza’s transition from war to development. The structure also includes a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza and several executive boards to implement the phased peace plan.

Expanding International Coalition

President Trump has extended invitations to several other world leaders to join the initiative, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Hungary’s participation reflects the Trump administration's preference for building ad hoc diplomatic coalitions outside traditional multilateral frameworks. Orbán’s government, which has often diverged from EU foreign policy consensus, has positioned itself as a proactive mediator in conflict zones, emphasizing dialogue and ceasefire diplomacy.

Political and Diplomatic Implications

Hungary’s inclusion in the Board of Peace strengthens Orbán’s alignment with Trump’s foreign policy approach and may elevate Budapest’s diplomatic profile in Middle Eastern affairs. However, the initiative is likely to face scrutiny from other European and international partners concerned about its structure, transparency, and compatibility with existing UN-led efforts. The move also highlights ongoing transatlantic divides over conflict resolution strategies and the role of U.S. leadership in mediating protracted regional crises.