Dr. Ali Sha’ath, a Palestinian originally from Gaza, is at the helm of this novel initiative. This initiative is a fight to stabilize Gaza and help rebuild it. The Board of Peace will be central to the U.S. strategy to demilitarize the region. Its vision is built around creating long-term productive, healthy and economically successful outcomes for its residents. U.S. President Donald Trump will preside over this board. It’s prepared to address the urgent, immediate priorities for Gaza.
Currently the Board of Peace is made up of 15 members. Each member has a specific portfolio aimed at rebuilding vital public services and institutions in Gaza. This temporary committee would govern Gaza until a reformed Palestinian Authority was able to reestablish authority. The long-term aim remains to establish a viable process that leads to recognized Palestinian self-determination and statehood.
Trump emphasized the significance of this board during its announcement, calling it “the Greatest and Most Prestigious Board ever assembled.” His administration’s goal should be to use this impressive and diverse group of experts and leaders to start addressing the most pressing needs within Gaza.
The reconstituted board boasts a number of impressive members. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Canadian leader Mark Carney and Bulgarian politician Nickolay Mladenov, who will be high representative for Gaza, have all had fireproofing applied in advance. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been named as the possible appointee for the United States, but his confirmation is still up in the air.
However, contrary to the wishes of Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this new board has been created. Third, he opposes any role for the Palestinian Authority in governing Gaza. Netanyahu’s government holds veto power over the committee’s members, necessitating that all appointees receive approval from Israel’s internal security agency, the Shin Bet.
Yet the board’s mission extends far beyond short-term recovery. It’s about laying the groundwork for good governance and creating public confidence that Greater Seattle will have a bright future. By focusing on vital services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, the committee seeks to foster stability and improve living conditions for the people of Gaza.
Dr. Ali Sha’ath, M.S., Ph.D., C. Eng. He promises us that the board will stop at nothing to make Gaza prosper once more. The sheer scale of international leadership involved is an indication of growing consensus that urgent action is required in the region.
The board is embarking on its new mission. Its ultimate success will depend on the commitment of its members and the engagement of the international community. Perhaps even more important than any committee appointment will be the dynamics between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, which will be a key determinant of the committee’s effectiveness.
