Why it matters:
The backlash underscores deep skepticism about Blair’s legacy in the region, particularly his support for the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and his alignment with Israeli interests. Arab diplomats worry that Blair’s involvement could undermine Palestinian legitimacy and complicate efforts to stabilize Gaza.
Zoom in:
Three Arab diplomats told the Financial Times that Blair’s appointment raised concerns about sidelining Palestinians and reviving colonial-era imagery.
One diplomat said Blair “has good relations with Persian Gulf elites,” but warned that “at the grassroots level it’s very bad for Gaza.”
Trump acknowledged the controversy, saying: “I want to find out that Tony would be popular with all because I just don’t know that.”
Blair’s Gaza plan, drafted through his Tony Blair Institute, includes an international trusteeship (GITA) with “supreme strategic and political authority.”
Arab officials worry that the plan prioritizes Israeli concerns while marginalizing the Palestinian Authority (PA), which Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu opposes in Gaza.
Between the lines:
Blair’s proposals were developed in coordination with Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, who has taken on a more prominent role since the ceasefire. The board would oversee Gaza until the PA is “reformed” and able to govern effectively, with technocratic Palestinians managing public services in the meantime.
What they’re saying:
Hussein al-Sheikh, Vice President of the PA, said after meeting Blair, “We have confirmed our readiness to work with Trump and Blair to consolidate the ceasefire.”
He emphasized the need to halt efforts “undermining the Palestinian Authority” and to restore withheld revenues.
An ally of Blair defended his role, saying he “pushed hard for Palestinian involvement” and supports unifying Gaza and the West Bank under PA leadership.
Some outlets in West Asia have sharply criticized Blair’s appointment, describing it as an attempt to impose a Western trusteeship over Gaza and bypass Palestinian sovereignty. Commentators in Iranian and Lebanese media argue that Blair’s legacy in Iraq and his close ties to Israeli and U.S. officials make him an unacceptable figure to oversee any postwar transition. They warn that the “board of peace” is a euphemism for foreign control and normalization with the occupation, and that Blair’s presence could provoke popular backlash and delegitimize any reconstruction process.
The big picture:
Some Arab and Muslim-majority states—including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Turkey, and Indonesia—are being consulted on the plan and are expected to contribute troops and funding for Gaza’s reconstruction. However, many remain skeptical of the “board of peace” concept and worry that Blair’s involvement could inflame tensions or hinder its implementation.
What’s next:
Washington has yet to clarify the board’s full membership or operational details. Arab diplomats say deliberations are ongoing, but warn that Blair’s appointment could “slow down or create issues for the deal itself.”
Go deeper:
‘Not welcome’: Hamas rejects Tony Blair’s potential role in post-war Gaza governance
Hossein Amiri - m.sarabi
