President Donald Trump unveiled a new initiative called the “Board of Peace,” describing it as a global effort to help resolve conflicts in regions such as Gaza. The plan requires participating nations to contribute $1 billion for permanent membership. While countries including Israel, Argentina, Russia, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia reportedly accepted the invitation, several others — among them Germany, Canada, France, Italy, Norway, Sweden, the UK, and Ukraine — declined to join. Trump also extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV, leader of the Roman Catholic Church, hoping to include the Vatican in the effort.

After initially taking time to consider the proposal, the Vatican formally declined. According to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Pope believes complex international conflicts should be addressed through established multilateral institutions such as the United Nations rather than a board led by a single nation. Although Pope Leo did not personally elaborate in detail, his decision aligns with his broader public stance emphasizing human rights, dignity, and cooperative global diplomacy. The Vatican’s response underscores its long-standing support for international dialogue and multilateral solutions when addressing global crises.