UAE and Bahrain accept seats on Trump’s Board of Peace, a US initiative costing $1 billion for a permanent role, amid regional tensions and Gaza plan focus.
DUBAI: The presidents of the UAE and Bahrain have accepted invitations to join US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace”.
The initiative has sparked controversy by asking world leaders for a $1 billion contribution to secure a permanent seat.
The UAE foreign ministry confirmed President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s acceptance of the US invitation.
Bahrain’s foreign ministry also stated that King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa had accepted the friendly invitation from President Trump.
Both Gulf nations are top US allies and signatories to the Abraham Accords with Israel.
Their decision comes amid reported tensions between the UAE and fellow US ally Saudi Arabia.
Each has sought favour with the Trump administration through pledges of investment and business deals.
The board’s charter, seen by AFP, states member countries serve three-year terms renewable by the chairman.
This restriction is waived if a member contributes over $1 billion in cash within the charter’s first year.
Neither Gulf country has disclosed if they plan to pay for a permanent seat.
Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed linked the move to implementing Trump’s peace plan for Gaza.
He said it was critical for realising the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Bahrain welcomed Trump’s plan and his efforts to establish lasting peace in the world.
The board is a key element of a US-backed plan to end the war in Gaza, which began last October.
Abu Dhabi has faced an Arab world backlash over its Israel ties since the Gaza war.
The UAE has continued providing aid to Gaza, including air drops when Israel limited land access.
A UAE state minister, Reem Al Hashimy, already sits on a subcommittee of the board.
Originally meant to oversee Gaza’s rebuilding, the board’s charter does not limit its role to the strip.
It appears designed to rival the United Nations, drawing ire from allies like France.
