Trump's Gaza Board of Peace Issues First Military Base Contract 2026

Trump's Gaza Board of Peace has issued its first construction contract in the devastated territory, a project to build a rudimentary 150-person military outpost for Moroccan troops, according to a source familiar with the matter. This marks a significant step in the board's reconstruction efforts, though the contract is not yet finalized.

First Contract Awarded: A Military Base in Gaza

The contract, awarded to Louisiana-based firm Arkel International, involves building a 100-metre by 120-metre base in the 60% of Gaza's territory directly controlled by Israeli forces. The outpost is intended to house Moroccan troops who would rotate from a base in Israel, supporting the international stabilisation force (ISF) as part of the security and governance arrangements.

Arkel International has previous experience working with the US government in Iraq, making it a familiar partner for such projects. The Board of Peace, chaired by President Trump and led by his son-in-law Jared Kushner and friend Steve Witkoff, has been overseeing Gaza's reconstruction since January.

Board of Peace's Reconstruction Plans

Originally, the board's Gaza reconstruction blueprint was ambitious, aiming to rebuild the entire territory. However, a Guardian report from July revealed that the plan had shrunk dramatically to a small pilot project in the south of the strip. The military base contract is one of several that the board and the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza are preparing, though none have been finalised.

An official from the Board of Peace stated: "One prospective contract concerns facilities to support the international stabilisation force (ISF), which will assist in implementing the roadmap's security and governance arrangements. This contract will be one of many that are essential for the future of Gaza."

Key Details of the Military Base Contract

• Contractor: Arkel International, a Louisiana-based firm with prior US government work in Iraq.
• Location: In the Israeli-controlled area of Gaza, measuring 100m by 120m.
• Purpose: Housing 150 Moroccan troops rotating from a base in Israel.
• Status: Not yet finalised; part of a broader set of upcoming contract awards.

Comparison: Original Vision vs. Current Pilot Project

Political and Security Implications

The contract comes just days after Trump announced that Hamas had agreed to disarm, though questions remain about how the group would give up its guns. Israel has opposed the plan and increased airstrikes in Gaza following the announcement, complicating the reconstruction environment.

The base's location in Israeli-controlled territory suggests a long-term security presence, which could affect peace negotiations. The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, composed of Palestinian technocrats, is working alongside the Board of Peace to oversee these developments.

Key Takeaways

• The Board of Peace is moving from planning to action with its first construction contract.
• The military base for Moroccan troops signals a focus on security over broad reconstruction.
• Arkel International's experience in Iraq may expedite the project once finalised.
• Political tensions with Israel and Hamas could delay or alter the contract's execution.

FAQ

As the Board of Peace continues its work, this first contract signals a shift toward practical security measures. However, with political hurdles and ongoing conflict, the path to Gaza's reconstruction remains uncertain. Stay informed on developments by following our business and world news coverage.