Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced Thursday the formation of the Board of Peace for Gaza, urging Hamas to return the final deceased hostage to Israel and initiate full demilitarization immediately. "It is my Great Honor to announce that THE BOARD OF PEACE has been formed," Trump stated on his social media platform Truth Social, adding that the board's members will be revealed shortly.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Trump, as chairman of the board, expressed his support for a newly appointed Palestinian Technocratic Government. This government, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, will be supported by the Board's High Representative to govern Gaza during its transition. Trump emphasized that these Palestinian leaders are firmly committed to a peaceful future.

The United States is collaborating with Egypt, Trkiye, and Qatar to secure a comprehensive demilitarization agreement with Hamas. This agreement includes the surrender of all weapons and the dismantling of Hamas's tunnel network. Trump stressed the urgency of compliance, stating, "Hamas must IMMEDIATELY honor its commitments, including the return of the final body to Israel, and proceed without delay to full Demilitarization." He warned that Hamas can choose an easy or difficult path, but "time is NOW."

Trump's announcement follows a statement by his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, about the launch of the second phase of the Gaza peace deal. Proposed by Trump last September, the 20-point, three-phase plan focuses on demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction of Gaza. The Board of Peace, chaired by Trump, is a key component of this plan.

On Wednesday, Egypt, Qatar, and Trkiye confirmed the formation of the Palestinian Technocratic Government. They expressed hope that this development will facilitate the second phase of the peace deal and help maintain calm in the region. However, local analysts highlight that Hamas's full demilitarization remains a significant hurdle, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations during the first phase.

Witkoff reiterated the U.S. expectation for Hamas to fulfill its obligations, including the immediate return of the final deceased hostage, warning of serious consequences for non-compliance. Bishara Bahbah, a Palestinian American mediator between Hamas and the Trump administration, announced that the first official meeting of the Board of Peace is anticipated to occur alongside the Davos meetings later this month.