Israel’s prime minister announced Thursday the selection of Nickolay Mladenov, a former UN Middle East envoy, as the director-general for US President Trump’s Board of Peace. The board is intended to oversee the next phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Appointment and Mandate
Benjamin Netanyahu made the announcement following a meeting with Mladenov in Jerusalem, sharing photos and a video of their handshake. According to Netanyahu, Mladenov is “designated” to lead the board’s efforts to implement the second, more complex stage of the ceasefire. A senior US official, speaking anonymously, confirmed Mladenov is the Trump administration’s choice to administer the Board of Peace on a day-to-day basis.
The board’s responsibilities, as outlined in Trump’s plan, include supervising a new Palestinian government, overseeing the disarmament of Hamas, coordinating the deployment of an international security force, facilitating further Israeli troop withdrawals, and managing the reconstruction of Gaza.
Ceasefire Challenges and Humanitarian Concerns
The current ceasefire, which began on October 10th of last year, involved an exchange of hostages held by Hamas for hundreds of Palestinians held by Israel. While the ceasefire has largely held, it has been accompanied by accusations of violations from both sides. Hamas has yet to return the body of an Israeli policeman killed during the October 7th incursion that initiated the conflict.
Israeli strikes in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of over 400 Palestinians, according to local health officials. Israel maintains these strikes are responses to violations of the ceasefire agreement, while Palestinian health officials report civilian casualties among the dead.
Obstacles to Progress
Leaders from Egypt and the European Union, meeting in Cairo on Thursday, called for the deployment of an international stabilization force in Gaza to oversee the ceasefire. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that Hamas’s refusal to disarm is hindering progress, while also noting restrictions placed on international NGOs are jeopardizing humanitarian aid access. Kallas asserted there is “no justification” for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), warned that Israeli pressure on the organization could create a “huge vacuum” in essential services, as UNRWA possesses unique capacity and community trust in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Trump’s Board of Peace?
The board is intended to oversee the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, which includes supervising a new Palestinian government, the disarmament of Hamas, and the reconstruction of the Strip.
What is the current status of the ceasefire?
The ceasefire, which began on October 10th, has largely held, but has been marred by mutual accusations of violations and the continued loss of life.
What concerns have been raised about humanitarian aid in Gaza?
EU and Egyptian leaders have expressed concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, citing Hamas’s refusal to disarm and restrictions on international NGOs as contributing factors.
What impact will this appointment have on the future of the peace process in Gaza?
