In early August, the Board of Peace issued its first construction contract for Gaza to Louisiana-based Arkel International. The project called for a fortified 100 by 100 meter outpost, at the site of a former U.S.-backed humanitarian project, to serve as a base for 150 international troops from a larger contingent of 500 troops from Morocco and Kosovo. Two months later, Israel has not permitted the contract to proceed. "Israel won't open the border," the person said. Without the outpost, the Board of Peace's plans for reconstruction and security in Gaza cannot move forward. The Board believes Israel may allow the project to proceed after Israeli elections scheduled for 27 October. A Board of Peace spokesperson declined to comment. The Israeli government did not respond to requests for comment. The Board, authorized by the UN in 2025 and chaired by President Trump for life, also includes Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff on its executive board. Trump has listed the Gaza war among eight conflicts he claims to have resolved.
Israel blocks construction of Gaza base for Trump's Board of Peace
Two months after contract was awarded, contractors and trucks not allowed to cross into Gaza, source says
Analysis
Why This Matters
- The blocked outpost stalls the entire Board of Peace program, including reconstruction and security operations in Gaza.
- It undermines Trump's claim to have resolved the Gaza war and raises questions about the viability of the international peace effort.
- The outcome may hinge on Israeli domestic politics, with elections set for 27 October.
Background
The Board of Peace was formed after an October 2025 ceasefire in Gaza, with Trump as permanent chair. The outpost was intended as the first physical foothold for an international stabilization force, drawing troops from Morocco and Kosovo. Israel's war in Gaza is one of eight conflicts Trump claims to have resolved.
Key Perspectives
Board of Peace: Sees the outpost as essential to begin reconstruction and security, and expects Israel to allow construction after its elections. Israel: Has not responded to requests for comment but is actively preventing contractors from entering Gaza; reasons are not publicly stated. Critics/Skeptics: The Board's unusual structure, with Trump as chair for life and family members in key roles, has drawn scrutiny. Critics may question its independence and effectiveness.
What to Watch
- Whether Israel permits construction after the 27 October election.
- The Israeli election outcome and its impact on policy toward Gaza.
- Any further statements from the Board of Peace or the Trump administration.
Sources
- Israel blocks construction of key Gaza base created by Trump peace board — World news | The Guardian