The Vatican has delivered a firm, measured response to President Donald Trump’s invitation to join his new “Board of Peace,” making clear it will not participate—at least not in the current form. The decision puts the Holy See at the center of a growing diplomatic conversation over the best way to address post-conflict recovery in Gaza.
Trump unveiled the Board of Peace in January as part of a broader plan aimed at stabilizing Gaza and promoting long-term development. The White House pitched the board as a global coordination effort, with Trump chairing and a panel of experts in diplomacy, infrastructure, and economics overseeing implementation. The goal, according to Washington, is to rebuild after conflict while ensuring accountability and international support.
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin addressed the issue during a press briefing in Rome, linked to an anniversary event in the Italian capital. Parolin explained that the Vatican’s decision reflects its “particular nature” in international affairs. Unlike other states, the Holy See does not act in the same capacity on geopolitical initiatives.
Parolin added that certain elements of the board proposal left Vatican officials “somewhat perplexed,” pointing to “critical points” that require clarification before any reconsideration could even be discussed. He also emphasized a guiding principle: the Vatican believes global crises are best managed through established multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations.
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