Pope Leo XIV’s Response to Trump’s Board of Peace Initiative
In a significant diplomatic move, Pope Leo XIV has opted out of joining the newly formed Board of Peace, an initiative led by President Donald Trump. The Vatican’s decision underscores its allegiance to the United Nations as the primary international peacekeeping entity.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, explained the Holy See’s stance during a press briefing. He mentioned that the Vatican’s unique role does not align with the nature of the Board of Peace. Parolin pointed out that “there are points that leave us somewhat perplexed,” highlighting the need for further clarifications.
Emphasizing the importance of the United Nations, Parolin stated, “At the international level, it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations.” This position reflects the Vatican’s commitment to the existing global peace framework.
The Vatican joins several other nations, such as Denmark, France, Norway, Slovenia, and Sweden, in declining the invitation to join Trump’s Board of Peace. According to the Board’s official website, 62 countries were initially invited to participate.
Introduced at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland last month, the Board of Peace is part of Trump’s broader effort to address the Israel-Hamas conflict. The initiative has received backing from the U.N. Security Council through Resolution 2803.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza escalated following a terror attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, prompting a military response from Israel. The Board of Peace aims to establish stability and lawful governance in regions impacted by such conflicts.
President Trump leads the Board of Peace, with an Executive Board comprising notable figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair. This board is responsible for key aspects of Gaza’s stabilization, including governance and investment.
Countries such as Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey are among those who have signed the Board’s charter. Others, like Egypt and Israel, are part of the initiative but missed the signing ceremony.
The U.N. has authorized the Board’s operation until December 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension or dissolution depending on its effectiveness and leadership decisions. The future of the Board of Peace will be reassessed by the U.N. Security Council at the end of the current authorization period.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
