White House Unveils “Board of Peace” to Oversee Gaza Reconstruction and Governance

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a bold diplomatic move, President Donald Trump has officially announced the formation of the Board of Peace, a high-level international body tasked with overseeing the transitional governance and multi-billion-dollar reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

The announcement, made late Friday, January 16, 2026, marks the beginning of “Phase Two” of the administration’s 20-point peace plan. President Trump will serve as the Chairman of the board, which he described as the “Greatest and Most Prestigious Board ever assembled.”

A Roster of Heavy Hitters

The board brings together a unique blend of veteran diplomats, financial experts, and close presidential advisors. Key appointments include:

• Sir Tony Blair: The former UK Prime Minister joins as a founding executive member. Despite past controversy regarding the Iraq War, Blair is being tapped for his experience with the “Quartet” and his role in the Northern Ireland peace process.
• Jared Kushner: The President’s son-in-law and architect of the Abraham Accords returns to the diplomatic stage to oversee regional relations and investment attraction.
• Marco Rubio: The U.S. Secretary of State will manage the diplomatic integration of the board’s efforts with global allies.
• Ajay Banga: As President of the World Bank, Banga will lead the “capital mobilization” efforts required to rebuild Gaza’s leveled infrastructure.
• Steve Witkoff: The U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East will serve as a primary liaison on the ground.

Transition to Technocratic Rule

The Board of Peace is designed to act as an international oversight body rather than a day-to-day government. Under its supervision, a 15-member National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) has been formed.

Led by Dr. Ali Sha’ath, a respected Palestinian technocrat and former deputy minister, the NCAG will manage public services, civil institutions, and the stabilization of daily life. This structure effectively creates a “trusteeship” model aimed at transitioning Gaza away from the previous administration while maintaining a terror-free environment.

“The United States remains fully committed to this transitional framework,” the White House statement read. “Each board member will oversee a defined portfolio critical to Gaza’s long-term success.”

Security and Stabilization

To ensure the safety of the reconstruction efforts, the White House also appointed Major General Jasper Jeffers, former commander of U.S. Special Operations, to lead the International Stabilization Force (ISF). Authorized by a UN Security Council resolution in late 2025, the ISF will work toward comprehensive demilitarization and provide security as Israeli forces begin a phased withdrawal.

Diplomatic Hurdles and Global Reactions

The inclusion of Tony Blair and Jared Kushner has already sparked significant debate. While some Western leaders praise the “diplomatic firepower” of the board, others—including some Palestinian advocates—have raised concerns about the lack of direct Palestinian representation on the oversight board itself.

Furthermore, the board faces the immediate challenge of securing a final commitment from regional actors regarding the permanent demilitarization of the territory.