2012 – Mladenov hosts Bulgaria’s first Syrian opposition meeting, demonstrating his early role in facilitating dialogue among warring factions and earning a reputation as a mediator in complex regional conflicts[2].

2015 – Mladenov arrives in Jerusalem, beginning a period of direct engagement with Israeli and Palestinian leaders that builds the cross‑front trust later cited as essential for his 2026 appointments[1].

2020 – Mladenov concludes his tenure as the United Nations’ top envoy to the Middle East, a role in which he oversaw peace initiatives across the region and cemented his status as a seasoned diplomat[1].

2021 – He receives the Grand Star of the Order of Jerusalem, a symbolic acknowledgment of his contributions to peace efforts and a credential that bolsters his credibility with both Israeli and Arab partners[2].

Oct 7 2023 – Hamas launches a large‑scale attack on Israel, sparking the war that later leads to the U.S.–brokered ceasefire and the governance framework now overseen by Mladenov[3].

Jan 8 2026 – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces Mladenov as director‑general of Trump’s Gaza ceasefire board, tasked with supervising the second, more complex phase of the ceasefire, including a technocratic Palestinian government, Hamas disarmament, an international security force, Israeli troop pullbacks and reconstruction[3]. The same day eight civilians are killed in Israeli strikes, Hamas condemns the deaths as a ceasefire violation, and UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini warns that pressure on the agency could create a humanitarian vacuum in Gaza and the West Bank[3].

Jan 9 2026 (morning) – The board is formally described as chaired by former President Donald Trump and charged with overseeing the ceasefire framework; experts Milen Keremedchiev notes Bulgaria’s “moderate” stance and Mladenov’s balanced approach, while retired Israeli diplomat Alon Bar praises his ability to build trust with both Israeli leadership and Palestinian officials[2].

Jan 9 2026 (evening) – Israeli and U.S. officials confirm Mladenov’s appointment as head of Trump’s Gaza board, reiterating the board’s mandate to implement the technocratic government, disarm Hamas, deploy international forces, pull back Israeli troops and drive reconstruction, underscoring the high‑level international backing for the next phase of the peace process[4].

Jan 18 2026 – Mladenov is named Gaza High Representative, linking the U.S.‑brokered 20‑point ceasefire to a forthcoming Palestinian technocratic committee that will govern Gaza; he coordinates with the White House “Board of Peace” (including Kushner, Rubio, Witkoff and Blair) to turn the ceasefire into a viable governance program acceptable to Israelis, Palestinians and Americans[1]. Palestinian leaders warn that a parallel Gaza authority could fragment governance and hinder a two‑state solution, while Hamas says it will cooperate with the technocratic body; Mladenov’s New Year post on X calls for “common sense, respect for facts and measured restraint,” signaling his pragmatic approach as he assumes the role[1].