Trump Launches “Board of Peace” for Gaza Reconstruction
The Trump administration has unveiled a high-profile “Board of Peace” tasked with overseeing the reconstruction and stabilization of Gaza following the recent conflict. This initiative, a central component of Trump’s 20-point plan to end the war between Israel and Hamas, aims to manage the territory’s recovery and establish a lasting peace.
Key Members of the Board
Leading the board as chairman is Donald Trump himself. The founding executive board includes a diverse group of influential figures:
- Marco Rubio: US Secretary of State
- Sir Tony Blair: Former UK Prime Minister
- Steve Witkoff: Trump’s Middle East envoy
- Jared Kushner: President’s son-in-law
- Marc Rowan: Head of a private equity firm
- Ajay Banga: World Bank chief
- Robert Gabriel: US national security adviser
Each member will oversee a portfolio deemed “critical to Gaza’s stabilisation and long-term success,” according to a White House statement. Trump described the board as the “Greatest and Most Prestigious Board ever assembled at any time, any place.” Additional members are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Sir Tony Blair’s Role and Past Experience
Sir Tony Blair, who previously served as Middle East envoy for the Quartet (US, EU, Russia, and the UN), brings significant experience to the board. His prior work focused on economic development in Palestine and fostering conditions for a two-state solution. He participated in high-level discussions regarding Gaza’s future, including a recent meeting with Trump and Witkoff, who described the plans as “very comprehensive.”
While his involvement has raised some eyebrows due to his role in the 2003 Iraq War, some, like Health Secretary Wes Streeting, acknowledge his diplomatic skills and potential to contribute positively, referencing his success in brokering the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.
Parallel Palestinian Committee and International Force
Alongside the “Board of Peace,” a 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), has been established to manage the day-to-day governance of post-war Gaza, led by Ali Shaath, a former deputy minister in the Palestinian Authority. Nickolay Mladenov, a former UN Middle East envoy, will serve as the board’s representative on the ground, working with the NCAG.
Furthermore, an International Stabilisation Force (ISF) will be deployed to Gaza, headed by US Major General Jasper Jeffers, to train and support Palestinian police forces and ensure a “durable terror-free environment.”
Challenges and the Path Forward
The US peace plan, initiated in October, is currently in its second phase, focusing on reconstruction and the demilitarization of Gaza, including the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian groups. Witkoff has warned of “serious consequences” if Hamas fails to comply with its obligations, including the return of any remaining Israeli hostages.
However, the ceasefire remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The UN reports dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, emphasizing the need for unrestricted aid flow. As of recent reports, over 71,260 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since the conflict began, while three Israeli soldiers have been killed in attacks by Palestinian groups. The initial conflict was triggered by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken.
The future of Gaza and its 2.1 million residents remains uncertain, but the establishment of the “Board of Peace” represents a significant step towards addressing the complex challenges ahead.
Sources: BBC News