Trump threatens 200% tariff on French wine if Macron declines Gaza peace board

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on French wines and champagne in response to reports that French President Emmanuel Macron intends to decline an invitation to join the US-led Gaza Board of Peace. Speaking to reporters after attending the National Championship college football game in Miami on Monday, Trump dismissed Macron’s potential refusal, stating, “Well, nobody wants him because he’s going to be out of office very soon,” before suggesting the steep tariff as possible retaliation.

Macron’s Reported Concerns Over UN Role

French broadcaster BFM TV reported earlier Monday, citing sources close to Macron, that the French leader is hesitant to join the board due to concerns that the initiative extends beyond Gaza and could undermine the principles and structure of the United Nations. The White House announced the formation of the Board of Peace on Friday, describing it as central to implementing Trump’s 20-point plan to end the Gaza conflict, oversee reconstruction, and ensure accountability during the transition from war to development.

Structure of the Gaza Peace Initiative

The US has also established a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, an executive board, and a Gaza Executive Board to support the phased implementation of what Trump calls the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict. In addition to Macron, Trump has invited other world leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, to participate in the initiative.

Broader Trade and Diplomatic Context

The threat against French wine reflects Trump’s continued use of tariff leverage to pressure allies on geopolitical issues, following recent announcements of tariffs on eight European nations over their opposition to US ambitions in Greenland. Macron’s potential rejection highlights European skepticism toward US-led initiatives that operate outside established multilateral frameworks. The exchange underscores the growing strain in transatlantic relations as the Trump administration pursues ad hoc diplomatic coalitions and links trade policy to foreign policy objectives.