The United States has invited at least eight additional countries to join President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, a new international body intended to oversee the reconstruction and future governance of Gaza. Hungary and Vietnam have accepted the invitation, according to officials from both countries.

A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity because the charter has not been made public, stated that a $1 billion contribution would secure a country's permanent membership on the board. Without the contribution, membership would be limited to a three-year appointment. The official said the funds raised would be dedicated to rebuilding Gaza.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó told state radio Sunday that Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a strong supporter of Trump in Europe, had accepted the invitation. Vietnam's Foreign Ministry also released a statement confirming that Communist Party chief To Lam had accepted the invitation.

India has also received an invitation, according to a senior government official who requested anonymity because the information had not been officially released. Australia has been invited as well and will discuss the matter, according to sources familiar with the situation.

The Board of Peace signals President Trump's ambition to play a significant role in global affairs, particularly in the Middle East. The initiative aims to establish a framework for the long-term stability and development of Gaza following recent conflicts. The specific responsibilities and powers of the board remain unclear, as the charter has not been made public.

The invitation to join the Board of Peace has sparked varied reactions internationally. Supporters view it as a proactive step towards fostering peace and stability in a volatile region. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the financial commitment required for permanent membership and the potential for the board to exert undue influence over Gaza's future. The lack of transparency surrounding the board's charter has also drawn scrutiny.

The U.S. official said further details about the Board of Peace, including its operational structure and long-term goals, would be released in the coming weeks. The next steps involve consultations with invited countries and the formal establishment of the board's secretariat.