Observers of the inaugural Board of Peace gathering in Washington were in disbelief as President Donald Trump appeared to nod off while hosting delegates from more than two dozen countries to discuss Gaza’s reconstruction and security.
Trump announced at the meeting that member states pledged roughly $7 billion toward rebuilding Gaza and thousands of personnel for an international stabilization force aimed at enforcing the ceasefire and helping disarm Hamas.
The three‑hour meeting included typical Trump rhetoric and more formal speeches from key figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, Tony Blair, and UN Ambassador Mike Waltz.
But one moment in particular generated buzz on social media - and not in a good way.
As another foreign leader spoke, Trump struggled to keep his eyes open. When the official finished his thoughts, applause appeared to jolt Trump, who joined in clapping.
The moment earned immediate scorn from internet critics.
"Trump is not well," chided the Republicans against Trump account on X.
Author and blogger Carl Potak wrote on X, "SLEEPY DONNY, again showing he CANNOT handle the rigors of the PRESIDENCY. He is THE GREATEST... at being a HYPOCRITE. He charged A BILLION DOLLARS for countries TO JOIN his silly PEACE COUNCIL and CAN'T EVEN STAY AWAKE. What a DISGRACE.
Comedian Justin Martindale joked on X, "'Bored of Peace.'"
Cameron Niven, who does communications for Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), wrote on X, "For everyone criticizing AOC for barely stumbling on a few words on a complex policy, I raise you the actual president of the United States sleeping at this meeting. The fact that there’s not the same coverage is both depressing and infuriating."
Richard Hall, a former Middle East correspondent, wrote on X, "People mistakenly believed the Board of Peace was Trump’s attempt to subvert the UN, but it’s clear from these long speeches and elderly leaders falling asleep that this is the Arab League 2.0."
James Cibella, co-host of the Pool Scene Podcast, wrote on X, "If this was Biden, this would be the lead."
He added that Trump has been accused of rape and sexual abuse, including in the Epstein files. Trump has denied wrongdoing.
Independent journalist Aaron Rupar, who shared the clip of Trump on X, remarked, "Trump continues to struggle to stay awake as this interminable 'Board of Peace' meeting drags on. We're two and a half hours into this!"
Trump continues to struggle to stay awake as this interminable "Board of Peace" meeting drags on. We're two and a half hours into this! pic.twitter.com/tTeqEdv5l0
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) February 19, 2026