US President Donald Trump has announced the formation of a “board of peace” as part of the second phase of a US-backed plan intended to end the war in the Palestinian territory of Gaza.
New Governance Structures
The announcement, made via Mr. Trump’s Truth Social platform, follows the recent establishment of a 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee. This committee is tasked with managing the day-to-day governance of Gaza following the conflict. The board of peace will oversee the work of this committee, with Mr. Trump stating he will chair the board.
The plan also includes provisions for an International Stabilisation Force, intended to secure Gaza and train Palestinian police units. According to Bassem Naim, a senior Hamas leader, the success of these efforts now depends on “the mediators, the American guarantor and the international community.”
Ongoing Challenges
While the second phase of the plan is underway, it is occurring amidst reports of aid shortages and continued violence. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that 451 people have been killed by Israeli forces since the ceasefire took effect. A key demand for Palestinians remains a full Israeli military withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, though no specific timeline for this has been announced.
Hamas has not publicly committed to full disarmament, a condition Israel has stated is “non-negotiable.” Mr. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, posted that the US expects Hamas to “comply fully with its obligations.” Mr. Trump echoed this sentiment, stating that with the support of Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar, a “COMPREHENSIVE Demilitarisation Agreement” will be secured, including the surrender of all weapons and the dismantling of tunnels.
Hamas is preparing for internal elections to rebuild its leadership, a vote expected in the first months of 2026. Mr. Trump expressed optimism about the future, stating that the selected Palestinian leaders are “unwaveringly committed to a PEACEFUL future!”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the “board of peace”?
The board of peace, chaired by US President Donald Trump, will supervise the 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee tasked with managing the day-to-day governance of post-war Gaza.
What is Israel demanding of Hamas?
Israel is demanding a full disarmament of Hamas, which includes the surrender of all weapons and the dismantling of all tunnels.
When are Hamas leadership elections expected to take place?
Hamas is preparing to hold internal elections to rebuild its leadership in the first months of 2026, according to a Hamas leader.
As these new structures take shape, what challenges do you foresee in achieving a lasting peace in the region?
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