Trump threatens tariffs amid reports France may reject Gaza peace board

Tuesday 20 January 2026 - 07:00

By: Sahili Aya

Trump threatens tariffs amid reports France may reject Gaza peace board

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose sharply increased tariffs on French wines and champagnes following reports that France may decline to join a U.S.-led international Board of Peace focused on the Gaza conflict.

Speaking to reporters on Monday after attending a college football championship event in Miami, Trump dismissed remarks attributed to French President Emmanuel Macron suggesting he would not participate in the initiative. Trump questioned the reports and suggested that France’s refusal could trigger economic retaliation.

According to Trump, if Paris formally declines the invitation, the United States could introduce tariffs of up to 200% on French wine and champagne exports. He implied that such measures could pressure the French president to reconsider his position, while adding that participation in the board would remain optional.

French media outlet BFM TV, citing sources close to President Macron, reported that the French leader is reluctant to join the initiative, expressing concerns that the proposed board extends beyond Gaza and may conflict with the principles and institutional role of the United Nations.

The White House announced last week the creation of the Board of Peace as part of President Trump’s broader plan to end the war in Gaza and oversee the territory’s transition from conflict to reconstruction and development. The initiative includes several bodies tasked with strategic oversight, coordination of international aid, and governance during the transitional phase.

Trump has continued to invite other world leaders to participate in the board, presenting the initiative as a central pillar of his administration’s approach to global conflict resolution.