In a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Israel, the White House has announced a list of world leaders who will serve on the so-called “board of peace” to oversee the administration and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. The board, described by former US President Donald Trump as “the greatest and most prestigious board ever assembled, at any time, any place,” is part of his 20-point plan to end the conflict in Gaza.
However, Israel has objected to several of the appointments, stating that some were “not coordinated with Israel and were contrary to its policy,” though the country did not specify which individuals it opposed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the country’s Foreign Minister to contact US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the matter.
The board’s “founding executive board” will focus on investment and foreign relations, while the “Gaza executive board” will oversee the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), which will handle day-to-day affairs in the region. The executive board includes US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, with Trump himself serving as the chair.
Despite a ceasefire announced in October, violence in Gaza has continued, with at least 463 Palestinians killed since the truce was established. Israel has also maintained restrictions on food and other aid entering the strip, leading to widespread hunger and substandard living conditions. Several Palestinian children have even died from hypothermia during harsh winter weather.
The makeup of the international security force that will be deployed to Gaza as part of the ceasefire plan remains unclear, with Israel having previously objected to Turkey’s involvement. Disarmament of Hamas, a key sticking point, has also not been resolved.
As the “board of peace” takes shape, tensions between Israel and the White House are likely to escalate further, raising concerns about the fragility of the ceasefire and the prospects for a lasting resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
