President Trump plans to announce a major step forward in the Gaza peace process before Christmas, unveiling a new governance structure for the enclave, U.S. and Western officials involved in the talks said. The move comes as his administration seeks to solidify the fragile ceasefire established on Oct. 11 and prevent a return to large-scale conflict.
Phase one of the agreement, which focused on the release of hostages by Hamas, is nearly complete, with only the remains of one deceased hostage yet to be returned. Under U.S. pressure, Israel has agreed to open the Rafah crossing to allow Palestinians to leave Gaza for Egypt, while discussions continue on the terms for their eventual return. The second phase involves a further Israeli withdrawal from parts of Gaza, deployment of an international stabilization force (ISF), and implementation of a new governing body, including the Trump-led Board of Peace. This board will include roughly 10 leaders from Arab and Western countries, while an international executive board—featuring figures like former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair and Trump advisers Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff—will oversee a Palestinian technocratic government of 12–15 members unaffiliated with Hamas, Fatah, or other factions.
Countries including Indonesia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, and Turkey are reportedly prepared to contribute troops to the ISF, which will work alongside the technocratic government and coordinate with Israel and Egypt. Meanwhile, mediators from the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey are negotiating with Hamas on a plan for the group to disarm and step back from governing Gaza. Officials say the critical question in the coming weeks will be whether Hamas agrees to relinquish power and allow the new government to assume authority. Trump is expected to discuss the next phase of the plan with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the end of the month.