Turkey and Egypt announced on Saturday that US President Donald Trump had invited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi to join a newly formed Gaza Board of Peace, aimed at overseeing the territory’s temporary governance under a fragile ceasefire in place since October.
The White House stated on Friday that an executive panel has been created to implement Trump’s Gaza peace plan. The panel includes US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, World Bank President Ajay Banga, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. It will supervise portfolios covering governance, regional diplomacy, reconstruction financing, and investment mobilization.
On Saturday, the Turkish presidency confirmed receipt of Trump’s invitation for President Erdogan. Meanwhile, Egypt’s foreign minister said the invitation to President Al-Sisi is currently under review.
Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair expressed his appreciation for being selected, calling it an “honor” to assist in rebuilding Gaza. “I thank President Trump for his leadership in establishing the Board of Peace and am honored to be appointed to its Executive Board,” Blair said in a statement to AFP.
According to the White House, the broader Board of Peace will provide strategic oversight, coordinate international resources, and ensure accountability during Gaza’s transition from conflict to development. The US also plans to deploy an international stabilization force and appoint a high representative to coordinate governance, security, and reconstruction under the transitional framework.
The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions, as Hamas continues to refuse disarmament and has yet to return the remains of the final hostage, a key requirement for the first phase of the plan. While the October ceasefire has reduced large-scale hostilities, sporadic clashes and airstrikes persist, leaving the prospect of lasting peace uncertain.