Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is reportedly being considered for a key role in a transitional governing body for Gaza as part of peace initiatives led by the United States. Discussions involving Blair, the Trump administration, and other parties are focused on establishing a post-war transitional authority for the Palestinian region. Reports suggest that Blair could potentially lead this authority, supported by the United Nations and Gulf nations, as detailed by BBC and The Economist.
The Financial Times revealed that Blair, who previously served as a Middle East peace mediator from 2007 to 2015, expressed interest in being part of the supervisory board for the proposed transitional body. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, a non-profit organization, refrained from commenting on the speculations.
While Israeli media previously hinted at Blair’s involvement in the US-led peace plan, sources close to him confirmed his efforts to mediate the conflict among various stakeholders. It was emphasized that Blair’s objective is not to permanently displace Gazans but to establish a transitional governing body that would eventually transfer power back to the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah.
The proposed entity, tentatively named the “Gaza International Transitional Authority,” aims to secure a UN mandate to serve as the primary political and legal entity for a five-year period before returning control to Palestinians. The authority is anticipated to comprise a secretariat of up to 25 individuals and a seven-person board. Initially situated near Gaza’s southern border in Egypt, it is intended to move to Gaza once conditions are deemed safe.
Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen expressed support for Blair’s potential role, describing him as a “wonderful person” with the capability to shoulder the significant responsibility. Cohen highlighted the hope that Blair’s involvement could bring positive change to Gaza.
Blair’s potential involvement in the Gaza peace initiatives has sparked interest, particularly in light of his past role in the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. While an official UK inquiry criticized Blair for relying on flawed intelligence during the Iraq conflict, his recent discussions with President Trump regarding post-war Gaza highlight his ongoing engagement in diplomatic efforts.
President Trump’s vision for Gaza to become the “Riviera of the Middle East” has raised concerns, as it includes proposals for the relocation of Palestinians in the region.