France has expressed surprise over reports that the European Commission participated in a meeting of U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly established “Board of Peace,” stressing that the body lacked authorization from the European Council. Speaking on Thursday, French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux emphasized that the board should focus on the situation in Gaza.

He stated that France will refrain from engaging until the group’s mandate and scope are clarified. Confavreux highlighted that the European Commission “does not have a mandate from the European Council to attend” such meetings and expects the EC to clarify its involvement upon return. The inaugural meeting took place in Washington, coinciding with the official launch of the board by Trump on January 22 in Davos. Notably, several key U.S. allies have declined to join the initiative, citing concerns over its purpose and authority.

janus