New Delhi, Jan. 27 -- Last week, US President Donald Trump launched the board of peace (BoP) to oversee interim governance and rebuilding of Gaza. European countries like the UK and France declined to join. India, which too was invited, says it is still examining the offer. Mint looks at why countries are demurring and whether India should join.

The BoP was part of Trump's vision for post-war Gaza. It was outlined in his initial peace plan for the Middle East, made public in September. It was then called the "new international transitional body."

In November 2025, the UN Security Council formally backed the BoP, granting it international legitimacy till 2027. But last week, it became clear that Trump sees a broader role of BoP. News rep...