Tony Blair agreed to join a committee led by President Donald Trump to govern Gaza, sparking controversy among Palestinians and Labour Party members who remain critical of his Iraq war support. The former British prime minister previously served as Middle East envoy from 2007 to 2015 but made little progress toward a two-state solution. Hamas official Taher Al-Nono rejected any Blair involvement, stating Palestinians can manage their affairs independently.
Some diplomats and colleagues defended Blair's potential appointment, noting his relationships with American, Israeli, and Gulf leaders and his role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Palestinian commentator Hani Al-Masri described Blair's reputation among Palestinians as damaged, while one Middle East diplomat called him toxic. Labour lawmaker Kim Johnson termed the appointment outrageous. Blair's office called the Trump proposal a bold plan offering the best chance to end the conflict.
Some diplomats and colleagues defended Blair's potential appointment, noting his relationships with American, Israeli, and Gulf leaders and his role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Palestinian commentator Hani Al-Masri described Blair's reputation among Palestinians as damaged, while one Middle East diplomat called him toxic. Labour lawmaker Kim Johnson termed the appointment outrageous. Blair's office called the Trump proposal a bold plan offering the best chance to end the conflict.
