The Vatican announced Tuesday that Pope Leo XIV will not join President Donald Trump’s newly established Board of Peace for Gaza, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin explaining the decision was based on the board’s format and certain unresolved points in its 20-point peace plan.

Speaking at a meeting with the Italian government in Rome, Parolin said the Holy See found some aspects of the proposal “perplexing” and requested clarifications before considering participation. He emphasized that, from the Vatican’s perspective, international crisis situations should primarily be managed by the United Nations.

The board, launched by Trump, aims to oversee reconstruction in Gaza, projected to exceed $70 billion, and coordinate international efforts to deescalate conflicts globally. Thirty-five countries have accepted the invitation, including Israel, Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Hungary, and Turkey. Major Western European nations have declined, and Russia and China have yet to decide. Membership requires a minimum $1 billion contribution for permanent participation.

Pope Leo XIV has been outspoken on the Gaza conflict, calling for a permanent ceasefire, safe humanitarian access, and the release of hostages held by Hamas. In August, he criticized what he described as the “collective punishment” and displacement of Gazans and urged full adherence to international humanitarian law.

The board’s first in-person meeting is scheduled for Feb. 19 in Washington, D.C. Neither the White House nor the Vatican immediately responded to requests for comment.