Trump claims his self-created Board of Peace secures Gaza disarmament deal

On Thursday, President Donald Trump proclaimed that his Board of Peace has reached a deal to fully disarm Hamas and other armed factions in Gaza and to withdraw Israeli forces that currently control about two-thirds of the enclave. The plan, which Trump calls historic, will be implemented in phases, linking disarmament to the pull-out of troops. The board, first announced in September, positions Trump as chair and includes members such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, envoy Steve Witkoff, former British prime minister Tony Blair and Jared Kushner.

Over two dozen countries have signed on, ranging from regional powers like Israel and Saudi Arabia to nations across Europe, Asia and Latin America. However, major Western allies, Brazil, India, Mexico, South Africa, the Vatican, China and Russia have declined participation, citing concerns over the board’s structure and the absence of Palestinian voices. A U.N. Security Council resolution in November recognized the board for Gaza reconstruction and authorized a temporary stabilization force, but its broader legal authority remains uncertain.