Italy to join Trump’s board of peace as observer, Meloni confirms

Sunday 15 February 2026 - 16:30

By: Sahili Aya

Italy to join Trump’s board of peace as observer, Meloni confirms

Italy will participate as an observer in the “Board of Peace” initiative promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has confirmed.

In remarks published by Italian daily Corriere della Sera, Meloni said Rome had received an invitation to attend the inaugural meeting in observer capacity and intended to respond positively. She described the format as a “balanced solution,” noting that constitutional and legal constraints prevent Italy from becoming a full member of the body.

The Board of Peace was introduced earlier this year on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos. While initially framed as part of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, its founding charter outlines a broader ambition: facilitating negotiated solutions to armed conflicts worldwide.

According to official statements, representatives from 19 countries signed the charter at its launch, and Washington has indicated that additional states have since expressed interest or joined. The first leaders-level meeting is scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., on February 19.

Meloni stressed that the Middle East remains a priority for Italy’s foreign policy, citing Rome’s continued diplomatic engagement in the region. She added that the level of Italian representation at the Washington meeting has yet to be finalized, although Italian media have suggested that Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani could attend.

The Italian prime minister also signaled that other European countries—particularly Mediterranean states and those geographically closer to the Middle East—may consider participating as observers.

Beyond the new initiative, Meloni highlighted the importance of transatlantic cooperation, describing the current geopolitical climate as complex. She argued that Europe and the United States should focus on reinforcing shared strategic interests, especially in the security domain. In that context, she reiterated support for strengthening Europe’s role within NATO, while avoiding direct political commentary on Trump’s domestic movement, saying such matters fall outside the remit of European institutions.

The emergence of the Board of Peace adds a new dimension to ongoing debates about the future of global conflict resolution and the balance between traditional multilateral structures and alternative diplomatic forums.