Ted Cruz warns $400M Gaza peace plan provision could aid Hamas

A provision within the Board of Peace’s Gaza roadmap has drawn criticism from Senator Ted Cruz, who warned that a clause allowing up to $400 million to cover unpaid debts from the Hamas era could undermine the peace plan. The funds are intended to address obligations accumulated during nearly 20 years of Hamas rule, including payments to public-sector employees, vendors, and contractors.

Critics argue that settling these debts might inadvertently relieve financial pressures on Hamas or allow the group to divert resources. Conversely, Board officials maintain that the mechanism is necessary to ensure a successor authority can maintain essential services and legitimate business relationships. They state that every claim will be individually reviewed to ensure no funds assist Hamas.

The peace plan, described by retired four-star General Jack Keane as a ‘huge step forward,’ mandates the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed factions. This disarmament is a prerequisite for the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the transition of authority to a new, U.S.-backed Palestinian governing body.