New Delhi: Amid strained India-US relations over tariffs, US President Donald Trump has sent India an invitation to join the Gaza Board of Peace. Indian officials have indicated that New Delhi has several reservations regarding the legal framework of the proposed board and has yet to respond, although the proposal is under consideration.
According to Hindustan Times, Indian authorities confirmed on Sunday that India has received the invitation. Officials are carefully examining the plan, as it involves multiple sensitive issues. One officer noted that India remains committed to the two-state solution and supports all initiatives aimed at establishing peace in the region, without elaborating further.
Trump’s Letter to Modi
In his letter, President Trump described the board as a “historic and significant effort to restore peace in the Middle East” and invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in this “bold new approach for global conflict resolution.” The invitation has also been sent to over 60 countries, including Pakistan and Turkey.
India’s Concerns with the Peace Plan
Sources say New Delhi has objections to several clauses in the board’s charter. Officials are particularly wary that the initiative could be expanded in the future to include the Kashmir issue, citing Trump’s repeated claims in May 2025 regarding his role in halting clashes between India and Pakistan—claims India has rejected outright.
International Response and Legal Scrutiny
Meanwhile, France has indicated that it does not intend to give an immediate positive response to the invitation. Paris, along with its partners, is reviewing the proposed legal framework of the board, which is not limited to Gaza alone. French officials emphasized their commitment to the ceasefire in Gaza and a viable political future for both Palestinians and Israelis, while supporting effective multilateralism.
Russia is also reviewing the proposal. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that President Vladimir Putin received a diplomatic invitation to join the board and that Moscow is studying the plan carefully while expecting further clarifications from Washington.
About the Board of Peace
The Board of Peace is envisaged as an umbrella oversight body for Gaza, chaired by Trump, with participation from heads of state from various countries. Invitations have been sent to leaders from the Middle East and across the world. According to a copy of the letter and draft charter obtained by Reuters, Trump will serve as lifetime chair, and the board will initially address the Gaza conflict before potentially expanding to other conflicts. Member countries will serve three-year terms, and permanent membership reportedly requires a $1 billion contribution.
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