President Donald Trump recently launched a “Board of Peace,” saying it would help bring stability to conflict zones like Gaza. The plan requires countries to pay $1 billion for permanent membership. Nations including Germany, Canada, France, Italy, Norway, Sweden, the UK, and Ukraine declined, while Israel, Argentina, Russia, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia reportedly accepted.
Trump also invited Pope Leo to join the initiative. After initially saying he needed time to consider it, the Vatican has now declined. Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated that conflicts such as Gaza should be addressed through the United Nations, not a board led by a single country.
Although Pope Leo did not personally detail his reasoning, the decision aligns with his broader stance on peace, human rights, and the protection of freedom and dignity worldwide.