Trump's Gaza Peace Council seeks broad legal immunity and control of public assets

A draft decision uncovered by the Guardian outlines a four‑page framework for the U.S.‑backed "Peace Council" created by President Donald Trump to govern Gaza. The document, classified as “sensitive but unclassified,” would grant comprehensive legal immunity to council members, the office of the sovereign representative, international forces and non‑resident contractors operating in the enclave, shielding them from arrest, detention or any legal proceedings in Gaza. It also allows the council to appropriate public facilities and property in the territory free of charge.

The draft gives Trump the authority to lift immunity for any individual, provided a majority of the council’s executive committee approves. The executive body is reported to include Trump’s son‑in‑law Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Wittkoff, senior White House staffer Suzy Wiles and former National Security Advisor Marco Rubio. While multiple countries have pledged billions for Gaza reconstruction, most funds have not yet been transferred and no major contracts have been awarded. Legal scholars warn the immunity provisions could enable the council and its forces to avoid accountability for any civilian harm or property damage arising from reconstruction work, raising concerns over oversight and the legality of seizing public assets.