US President Donald Trump has appointed former UK prime minister Tony Blair and his son-in-law Jared Kushner to a new Gaza “Board of Peace”, tasked with overseeing Washington’s plan for the territory after Israel’s war.
The White House said on Friday the board would supervise what it called Gaza’s “stabilization and long-term success”, including governance, reconstruction, investment and security. Other members include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
The announcement comes as the Trump administration moves into what it describes as a second phase of its plan for Gaza, shifting from a ceasefire to demilitarisation and reconstruction. Palestinians have questioned the approach as Israeli attacks and aid restrictions continue despite the truce.
Blair’s inclusion is expected to draw sharp criticism. As UK prime minister from 1997 to 2007, he was a key ally of the United States during the Iraq war, a legacy that remains deeply controversial in the region.
Kushner, a close adviser to Trump during his first term, is also a divisive figure. He is a strong supporter of Israel and has previously argued that Palestinians are incapable of self-rule. He has also described Gaza as having “very valuable” waterfront property.
The White House said a separate Gaza Executive Board would support day-to-day administration in the territory, effectively replacing Hamas, which has said it is prepared to step aside from governing. There was no immediate response from Hamas or other Palestinian factions.
More than 71,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began in October 2023, according to Gaza health officials. Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is wanted by the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes, which Israel denies.
Board of Peace Executive Board members are:
- Secretary Marco Rubio
- Steve Witkoff
- Jared Kushner
- Sir Tony Blair
- Marc Rowan
- Ajay Banga
- Robert Gabriel
In support of the Office of the High Representative and the NCAG, a Gaza Executive Board is being established. The Board will help support effective governance and the delivery of best-in-class services that advance peace, stability, and prosperity for the people of Gaza. The appointed members are:
- Steve Witkoff
- Jared Kushner
- Minister Hakan Fidan
- Ali Al-Thawadi
- General Hassan Rashad
- Sir Tony Blair
- Marc Rowan
- Minister Reem Al-Hashimy
- Nickolay Mladenov
- Yakir Gabay
- Sigrid Kaag
