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White House reveals initial members of Gaza governance plan
The Biden administration has named the first members of its proposed Gaza "Board of Peace," drawing immediate criticism that the structure mirrors a colonial-style solution imposed without Palestinian representation.
Two-tier board structure excludes Palestinians
The plan features two senior bodies: a "founding Executive Board" focused on investment and diplomacy, and a "Gaza Executive Board" overseeing on-the-ground operations through the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). No Palestinians appear on either board so far.
The NCAG, led by Palestinian engineer and former minister Dr. Ali Shaath, is described as a technocratic, apolitical group. However, its authority remains subordinate to the higher boards.
American and British figures dominate leadership
Six of the seven members on the founding Executive Board are Americans, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff-all close allies of President Trump. The sole non-American is World Bank President Ajay Banga, an Indian-born U.S. citizen.
Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, whose inclusion has sparked controversy, appears on both boards. Critics cite his role in the Iraq War and Britain's colonial history in the Middle East as disqualifying factors. Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti and UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese have publicly opposed his involvement.
"Tony Blair? Hell no. Hands off Palestine."
Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on Palestinian human rights
Regional and Israeli representation added to Gaza board
The Gaza Executive Board includes diplomats from Turkey, Qatar, and the UAE, as well as Israeli-Cypriot businessman Yakir Gabay. Former Bulgarian politician Nickolay Mladenov will serve as High Representative for Gaza.
The White House stated the boards will prioritize "effective governance and best-in-class services" to advance peace and stability. However, the plan's complexity-with a yet-to-be-named supreme Board of Peace chaired by Trump-has drawn skepticism.
Rebuilding and demilitarization pose major hurdles
Gaza faces catastrophic damage, with the UN estimating 80% of buildings destroyed or damaged. Aid groups report ongoing Israeli restrictions, while Israel blames the UN for distribution failures. Rebuilding will require clearing 60 million tonnes of rubble, recovering bodies, and removing unexploded ordnance.
The White House named Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead the UN-backed International Stabilization Force (ISF), tasked with demilitarizing Gaza. However, no roadmap exists for disarming Hamas, which insists on a Palestinian state as a precondition. Israel, controlling half of Gaza, demands Hamas disarm before withdrawing.
Critics question legitimacy amid global support
Despite widespread backing from world leaders, the plan's exclusion of Palestinians from top roles fuels accusations of colonial overreach. Whether the boards can deliver tangible improvements-amid a fragile ceasefire and dire humanitarian conditions-remains uncertain.
