Tony Blair considered for role in Gaza under Trump peace plan

Trump: Tony Blair to Join International Board Overseeing Gaza

US President Donald Trump has announced that former UK Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair will be part of an international body overseeing Gaza as part of a US-supported plan to end the conflict.

Blair will be a member of a new "Board of Peace" chaired by Trump, tasked with temporarily governing Gaza after the hostilities cease. Trump mentioned that leaders from other countries would also join the board soon.

The plan includes a 20-point strategy to resolve the nearly two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas, involving demilitarization and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.

Blair expressed optimism about the plan, calling it the best opportunity to end the war and alleviate the suffering in the region.

Sir Tony Blair, who served as UK prime minister from 1997 to 2007, has been engaged in discussions regarding the transitional authority in Gaza. He previously worked as the Middle East envoy for the Quartet of international powers.

The plan, revealed by Trump, aims to bring an immediate end to the conflict once both sides agree to it. It also outlines the return of Israeli hostages and detainees, along with the provision of aid to Gaza and the deployment of a multinational security force.

The proposal includes the establishment of a Palestinian committee to govern Gaza temporarily, overseen by the international transitional body, the Board of Peace, led by Trump. Hamas would not have any involvement in the governance under the plan.

Trump expressed full support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if Hamas rejects the deal. The plan also hints at the potential for a Palestinian state in the future, contingent on reforms by the Palestinian Authority.

Blair praised Trump's plan, highlighting its potential to bring relief to Gaza, ensure Israel's security, and pave the way for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. The announcement marks a departure from earlier ideas proposed by the Trump administration regarding Gaza.