In a significant move towards establishing stability in Gaza, US President Donald Trump announced on 15 January 2024 the formation of a “board of peace” as part of a US-backed initiative aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in the region.
Key Members of the Board
The board will be led by Trump himself and includes notable figures such as:
- Marco Rubio – US Secretary of State
- Tony Blair – Former British Prime Minister
- Steve Witkoff – Trump’s special envoy
- Jared Kushner – Trump’s son-in-law
- Ajay Banga – World Bank President
- Jasper Jeffers – US Major General, head of the International Stabilisation Force
Trump proclaimed this board to be the “Greatest and Most Prestigious Board ever assembled at any time, any place,” a bold statement reflecting his confidence in the initiative.
Structure and Objectives
The establishment of the board coincided with the announcement of a 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee, led by Gaza native Ali Shaath, tasked with overseeing governance in post-war Gaza. This committee will operate under the board’s supervision, facilitating crucial day-to-day operations.
As part of the peace plan initiated on 10 October 2023, which aimed to cease hostilities and facilitate the return of hostages held by Hamas, the involvement of an International Stabilisation Force underscores the international community’s commitment to supporting Gaza during this transitional period.
Challenges Ahead
While the peace plan has made strides, it faces several challenges:
- Unresolved issues relating to Israel’s military withdrawal from Gaza.
- Hamas’s reluctance to commit to disarmament, a critical requirement from Israeli authorities.
- Concerns over aid shortages and ongoing violence in the area.
As expressed by senior Hamas leader Bassem Naim, the international community plays a vital role in empowering the newly formed governance structures to ensure successful implementation of the peace initiatives.