Spain declines to join Trump-backed ‘Board of Peace’ initiative

Spain has declined an invitation to participate in a proposed international initiative known as the ‘Board of Peace,’ which was launched by U.S. President Donald Trump, citing its long-standing commitment to the United Nations system.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said Madrid respects the invitation extended by President Trump but will not take part in the initiative. He stated that Spain’s foreign policy remains firmly anchored in multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations, which Spain views as the central forum for global peace and conflict resolution.

Sánchez emphasized that Spain supports international cooperation through established diplomatic frameworks and believes peace efforts should be coordinated within broadly recognized global institutions rather than parallel structures.

In contrast, Israel has confirmed its decision to join the proposed board. Other countries reported to be participating include Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting a divergence among U.S. allies and partners on how international peace efforts should be organized.

The decision underscores ongoing differences among Western and Middle Eastern governments over the role of new diplomatic initiatives versus existing multilateral systems, particularly at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions.