Former U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated a significant international effort, establishing a "Board of Peace" dedicated to governing and rebuilding Gaza temporarily. This ambitious project, reportedly agreed upon by both Israel and Hamas, seeks to create a structured pathway towards stabilization, improved governance, and economic recovery for the conflict-affected region. The White House officially announced the board's formation, marking a new diplomatic approach to the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis.
President Trump himself will lead this influential body, intended to guide Gaza through its transitional phase. Numerous countries and prominent international figures have been invited to participate. The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, confirmed his nation's acceptance to be among the "25 founding states," highlighting Cyprus's growing diplomatic influence. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has also been approached to join as a "founding member," signifying an effort to engage key regional stakeholders. Presidents Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt and Javier Milei of Argentina have publicly acknowledged receiving invitations as well.
An "Executive Board," comprising seven initial members, will manage the operational aspects of this initiative. This group includes U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, former U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, World Bank President Ajay Banga, executive Marc Rowan, and Trump advisor Robert Gabriel. They are expected to oversee critical areas of Gaza's reconstruction. Seasoned diplomat Nickolay Mladenov has been appointed as the "high representative for Gaza," acting as a vital link between the Board of Peace and a new Palestinian national committee. A complementary "Gaza Executive Board" will also be formed, featuring figures like Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and incumbent UN Special Coordinator Sigrid Kaag.
A key element of the plan involves deploying an "International Stabilization Force," commanded by U.S. Army Major General Jasper Jeffers, to enhance security and support the board's objectives. This comprehensive strategy is reportedly underpinned by UN Security Council Resolution 2803, which authorized the board's creation and the stabilization force. The ultimate aim is to facilitate a smooth transition, foster effective governance, promote regional collaboration, drive reconstruction, attract investment, and secure essential funding for Gaza's long-term recovery.
The inclusion of nations like Greece and Cyprus is seen as a strategic enhancement of their regional standing. However, the proposal has faced criticism. Some human rights experts have expressed concerns, drawing comparisons between Trump's oversight and historical colonial structures. Tony Blair's involvement has also sparked controversy due to his past role in the Iraq War and the historical context of British imperialism in the Middle East. Further announcements regarding board membership are anticipated, underscoring the broad scope of this multifaceted international endeavor.