White House Announces Board of Peace for gaza Governance
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The White House announced on January 16, 2026, the members of the “Board of Peace” tasked with overseeing the temporary governance of Gaza, as outlined in former President Donald trump’s plan following a ceasefire established in October 2025.
Board composition
The Board of Peace will be chaired by Donald Trump, and includes U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump special envoy Steve Witkoff, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and Jared Kushner. This composition reflects the international framework established in Trump’s plan for Gaza’s transitional governance.
The full details of the plan are available in the “Gaza Peace Plan” document released by the White House on December 20, 2025.
Context of the Plan
The plan, signed by Israel and Hamas in October 2025, proposes a Palestinian technocratic body governed under the supervision of the international Board of Peace during a transitional period. This arrangement aims to stabilize Gaza following recent violence and establish a framework for future self-governance.
The ceasefire agreement,brokered by the united States,is detailed in the U.S. Department of State’s official press release on the Gaza Ceasefire (October 15, 2025).
Criticism and Concerns
The establishment of a board overseen by a former head of state has drawn criticism from rights experts and advocates. Concerns have been raised that this structure resembles a colonial governance model. Tony Blair’s involvement has also been a point of contention, given his previous role as a Middle East envoy.
Human Rights Watch published a report on January 10,2026,outlining these concerns,available at “Gaza Governance Plan Risks Perpetuating Control”. The report details the potential for the Board of Peace to undermine Palestinian self-determination.
Transitional Governance Details
According to the White House plan, the Board of Peace is intended to oversee Gaza’s governance for an unspecified transitional period, focusing on security, economic development, and the establishment of democratic institutions. The Palestinian technocratic body will be responsible for day-to-day management under the Board’s supervision.
Further information on the proposed governance structure can be found in the USAID’s “Gaza Transition Framework” report (January 8, 2026), which outlines the planned support for the Palestinian technocratic body.
