Trump Unveils Gaza “Board of Peace”: Marco Rubio and Tony Blair Named to Founding Executive Team

By Lions Roar News International Desk

WASHINGTON D.C. (Saturday, January 17, 2026) — U.S. President Donald Trump has officially launched the “Founding Executive Board” of his ambitious Gaza Board of Peace, a move he claims marks the beginning of the “most prestigious” diplomatic effort in history.

The announcement, made late Friday, names a seven-member powerhouse committee tasked with overseeing the reconstruction and long-term stability of post-war Gaza. Trump himself will chair the board, signaling his direct involvement in the territory’s future.

🏛️ The “Board of Peace” Lineup

The White House confirmed the initial seven members who will lead the “Phase Two” transition:

Donald Trump (Chair): Taking personal oversight of the project.
Marco Rubio: U.S. Secretary of State.
Tony Blair: Former British Prime Minister and controversial veteran of Middle East diplomacy.
Jared Kushner: Trump’s son-in-law and key architect of the Abraham Accords.
Steve Witkoff: Special Envoy to the Middle East.
Ajay Banga: President of the World Bank.

The Controversy: The appointment of Tony Blair is expected to draw scrutiny across the Middle East due to his role in the 2003 Iraq invasion. Trump acknowledged the choice was bold, stating last year he aimed for Blair to be an “acceptable choice to everybody” while leaning on his extensive diplomatic experience.

🛡️ Security and Governance

While the “Board of Peace” handles high-level diplomacy and funding, two other key structures were announced to manage Gaza on the ground:

The Palestinian Technocratic Committee: A 15-member group of experts led by Gaza native and former PA deputy minister Ali Shaath. They will handle the day-to-day governance of the devastated territory.
The International Stabilization Force (ISF): Trump has tapped U.S. Major General Jasper Jeffers to command this multinational force, which is tasked with maintaining order and ensuring the safe delivery of aid.

⚠️ Phase Two: Progress Amidst Friction

The U.S.-backed peace plan, which successfully halted fighting on October 10 and saw the return of all hostages held by Hamas, has now entered its second phase. However, significant hurdles remain:

Disarmament Standoff: Hamas has yet to publicly commit to full disarmament—a “non-negotiable” demand from the Israeli government.
Logistical Crisis: The transition is being clouded by reports of severe aid shortages and sporadic outbreaks of violence in the “stabilization zones.”
Trump’s Verdict: Despite the challenges, the President hailed the new board as the “Greatest and Most Prestigious Board ever assembled at any time, any place.”