France is unlikely to accept an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join the proposed “Board of Peace,” a body meant to oversee the rebuilding of Gaza after the Israel-Hamas war ends.

According to a report by Le Monde, France “does not intend to answer favourably” to the invitation. The report said French officials have concerns about the board’s founding charter, which does not restrict the body’s role to Gaza alone.

Concerns Over UN Role and Legal Framework

A source quoted by Le Monde said the charter “goes beyond the sole framework of Gaza.” The source added, “It raises major questions, particularly regarding respect for the principles and structure of the United Nations, which under no circumstances can be called into question.”

French officials fear that the proposed board could weaken or bypass the UN system. They see this as a serious issue, especially given France’s long-standing support for multilateral institutions.

France Reaffirms Commitment to the United Nations

Earlier on Monday, France’s foreign ministry issued a statement restating the country’s strong backing for the United Nations.

“This remains the keystone of effective multilateralism, where international law, the sovereign equality of states, and the peaceful settlement of disputes prevail over arbitrariness, power politics and war,” the statement said.

The ministry also confirmed that France is studying the legal framework of the proposed board with its partners. It warned that the “project extends beyond the situation in Gaza,” reinforcing Paris’s hesitation.

Trump Sets $1 Billion Price for Permanent Membership

Meanwhile, President Trump has reportedly set a price for permanent membership of the Board of Peace. According to the proposal, countries must pay $1 billion to secure long-term membership.

The White House has invited several world leaders to join the board. These include Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Trump himself is expected to chair the board.

The charter states that members can serve for up to three years, with the option of renewal by the chairman. However, the rules change for countries that “contribute more than $1,000,000,000 in cash funds to the Board of Peace within the first year of the Charter’s entry into force.”

Board to Be Formalised at Davos

Trump is expected to formally launch the Gaza peace board at a signing ceremony this week. The event is likely to take place during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The charter includes sharp criticism of existing global institutions. It says the new board should have “the courage to depart from approaches and institutions that have too often failed.”

Trump’s Longstanding Criticism of the UN

Trump has repeatedly criticised the United Nations during his presidency. Earlier this month, he announced that the United States would withdraw from 66 international organisations and treaties. Around half of these bodies are linked to the UN system.

This broader policy shift has added to European concerns about the Board of Peace and its potential impact on existing international structures.