Australia’s potential involvement in a US-led “board of peace” appears increasingly unlikely, as analysts point to the prospective inclusion of leaders considered autocratic and the board’s ambiguous objectives.
Concerns Over Board Membership
The possibility of Australia joining the board has been called into question due to the potential presence of figures such as Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, alongside others described as “autocrats and despots.” Concerns center on the legitimacy of a group that seemingly operates outside the bounds of international law.
Critics argue there is little benefit for Australia in joining the initiative, and no realistic opportunity to exert meaningful influence. Instead, they suggest the country risks being held accountable for any negative consequences stemming from the board’s actions.
Trump’s Invitations and Actions
Donald Trump has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to join the board, despite Putin’s ongoing military actions in a neighboring country. Simultaneously, Trump has reportedly threatened to invade a NATO ally and expressed a diminished commitment to peaceful resolutions.
Composition and Intent
The board’s composition, which includes property developers but no representatives from Gaza, has been interpreted as indicative of its self-serving nature. Observers describe it as a “cartel of self-interest” rather than a genuine peace initiative.
Australian Government Response
Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles stated the invitation is under active consideration, with the government seeking clarification from the US regarding the board’s purpose and structure. The opposition has requested further details about the board’s objectives, membership, and potential implications.
David Shoebridge, the Greens’ defence spokesperson, criticized Trump’s proposal as an attempt to “sell Palestinian sovereignty” for financial gain while Palestinians continue to face conflict.
Former senator Doug Cameron urged Australia to reject the proposal, advocating for support of the United Nations and condemning the inclusion of “autocrats and Trump sycophants.”
Diplomatic Discussions
Australian officials are reportedly consulting with counterparts in like-minded democracies to coordinate a response. Some sources indicate Australia is unlikely to join the board, while others suggest a coordinated, polite declination is crucial to avoid isolation.
Ben Saul, Challis Chair of International Law at the University of Sydney, described the board as an organization Australia would “absolutely not wish to keep,” warning it lacks safeguards for international law and would not serve Australia’s national interest.
Saul also noted Australia’s recent “appeasement mode” towards the US, driven by concerns over security alliances and economic penalties, while the international order around it is “collapsing.”
The board of peace was authorized to oversee Gaza’s postwar transition through a UN security council resolution in November, though its charter does not specifically mention Gaza, instead outlining a broad mandate for seeking “enduring peace in areas affected or threatened by conflict.”
Analysts suggest joining the board would represent a departure from the rules-based international order and align Australia with potentially detrimental policies, including invasions, resource exploitation, and coercion of allies. The cost of a permanent seat on the board has been reported as US$1bn, under Trump’s complete control.
Drawing on Henry Kissinger’s observation, Saul cautioned that being America’s friend could prove “fatal,” highlighting the risks of aligning with an inconsistent and potentially unreliable ally.
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