Challenges Ahead for Trump's Gaza 'Board of Peace'

Sun Jan 18 2026 19:55:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The newly appointed Gaza peace committee faces skepticism and significant logistical hurdles amid a humanitarian crisis.

The White House's recently announced 'Board of Peace' for Gaza has raised eyebrows as it predominantly consists of American figures, stirring concerns of colonial overtones in the peace effort. Without Palestinian representation and amid ongoing humanitarian challenges, the board faces an uphill battle to achieve meaningful change in the region. Major issues include addressing extensive rebuilding needs in Gaza, maintaining a fragile ceasefire, and persuading militant groups to disarm.

The White House has announced the first members of its Gaza 'Board of Peace', but the list of names has not quelled criticism that the US president's initiative echoes a colonial framework imposed over the Palestinian populace.

As uncertainty looms over potential additional members and the operational structures, notable is the absence of any Palestinian representatives on the two senior boards unveiled so far.

These boards include a 'founding Executive Board' focused on investment and diplomacy and a 'Gaza Executive Board' tasked with local governance under a separate National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG).

The NCAG, directed by Dr. Ali Shaath, includes technocratic Palestinians, but the Executive Board itself is comprised of six Americans, including prominent figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, and Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff.

Ajay Banga, the World Bank president, is notably one of the few non-Americans involved, alongside former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, whose inclusion has ignited further criticism.

Opponents cite Blair's historical role in the Iraq War and Britain's colonial past in the region as reasons for skepticism regarding his suitability.

Despite global critiques, world leaders have expressed support for the plan, which aims to deliver essential services and governance to Gazans.

Yet, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with 80% of infrastructure damaged, and humanitarian aid organizations accusing Israel of ongoing restrictions that hinder relief efforts amid winter conditions.

The challenge to rebuild requires clearing an estimated 60 million tonnes of rubble while dealing with unexploded ordnance and the remains of casualties.

Furthermore, the ceasefire that currently exists is tenuous, with ongoing concerns over disarming Hamas and ensuring that a new international stabilization force can operate effectively.

As the new Board of Peace mobilizes, success will require addressing the complex realities on the ground and fostering trust among all stakeholders to pave the way for lasting peace.