A leaked draft has raised new questions about the proposed Gaza Board of Peace (BoP). The document reportedly outlines broad legal protections for board members operating in the Gaza Strip.
The draft was published by The Guardian and describes a governance framework backed by the United Nations. It also suggests the board would receive extensive legal immunity while carrying out its work.
Board officials have denied the report. They say the leaked document does not reflect the legal framework that will govern the mission.
Draft outlines broad legal protections
According to the leaked draft, all Board of Peace members would receive immunity from arrest, detention, and legal proceedings in Gaza. The protections would also apply to international personnel, contractors, and Palestinian technocrats working with the board.
The document reportedly covers members of the Office of the High Representative and international military forces involved in security and reconstruction efforts.
The draft also states that board members could only lose immunity if the board approved such a decision. Reports claim President Donald Trump, as board chair, would have the authority to propose that action.
Several legal experts reviewed the leaked draft after it became public. They argued that the language raises serious questions about oversight and accountability.
Experts said the proposal appears to shield board members from legal action, even if disputes arise during operations in Gaza.
Some specialists also warned that the draft creates uncertainty about how international law would apply to the board’s activities.
Property rights also questioned
The leaked document reportedly allows the Board of Peace to use public property in Gaza when necessary for its mission. It also states that such property could be used without compensation.
Legal experts fear this wording could lead to disputes over ownership and property rights. They argue that the draft does not clearly explain how affected residents would be protected.
Other analysts also questioned the board’s legal authority because no formal agreement has reportedly been reached with Israel regarding its operations.
A Board of Peace official rejected the claims published in the report. The official said there is no immunity system like the one described in the leaked document.
The board also denied reports that Trump would have the power to remove or grant immunity to members. Officials called those claims inaccurate.
According to the statement, all personnel involved in the mission will operate under applicable laws and established oversight procedures.
