Former British PM Tony Blair Backed by the US to Lead Temporary Administration in Gaza
In a significant development, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is reportedly being considered to head a temporary administration in the Gaza Strip, a move backed by the US. According to multiple reports, Blair has been in high-level discussions concerning the future of the territory.
Background
The plan involves Blair heading a body called the Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA), which would serve as the supreme political and legal authority for Gaza for up to five years. This proposal counters a UN-backed plan for a faster transition to Palestinian rule, and initially excludes the direct involvement of the Palestinian Authority (PA).
Key Developments
The Financial Times reports that the project has received support from the White House, although approval from Israel is still pending. According to BBC and Israeli media reports, Blair is in discussions to lead the transitional authority as part of a US-backed plan for post-war governance. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority has stated that it is ready to implement a plan unveiled by US President Donald Trump for the besieged enclave.
Blair's potential role as the head of GITA is seen as a move to oversee reconstruction after the war in Gaza. According to the proposal, Blair would preside over a seven-member board, effectively acting as the prime minister of Gaza.
Reactions and Implications
Blair's potential role in Gaza has sparked reactions due to his controversial relationship with the Middle East. As the Prime Minister who led Britain to war in Iraq alongside the US in 2003, Blair's legacy in the region has been contentious.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas refrained from criticizing the US plan during his video address to the UN General Assembly. Instead, he stated that the PA was ready to implement Trump's plan, adding that his government would work with international peacekeepers in Gaza.
However, Hamas rejected US President Donald Trump's accusation that the Palestinian movement was blocking efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. They stated the US administration, mediators, and the world know that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the one obstructing all attempts to reach an agreement.
Current Status
The proposal, one of many by various governments and think tanks, seeks a UN mandate to establish an international transitional authority in Gaza for up to five years. If approved, the plan would see Blair chairing GITA, with a secretariat of up to 25 people, funded by Gulf states.
As the international community continues to debate on the future of Gaza, the potential appointment of Blair as the head of the transitional authority is poised to significantly impact the region's future governance and reconstruction.