Trump picks Tony Blair for Gaza role despite Iraq war legacy
US President Donald Trump has named former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to help lead an interim authority in Gaza
LONDON, United Kingdom (MNTV) – US President Donald Trump has named former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to help lead an interim authority in Gaza, a move already sparking fierce criticism given Blair’s record in the Iraq war and his divisive legacy in the Middle East.
Blair, who backed the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq based on false claims about weapons of mass destruction, is regarded by many in the Arab world and in the U.K. as a “war criminal.”
His potential role as de facto governor-general of Gaza, outlined in Trump’s 21-point peace plan, has been described by critics as a neocolonial attempt to control the enclave once Hamas is ousted.
Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn was blunt, writing on X: “Tony Blair’s catastrophic decision to invade Iraq cost thousands upon thousands of lives. He shouldn’t be anywhere near the Middle East, let alone Gaza. It is not up to Blair, Trump or Netanyahu to decide the future of Gaza. That is up to the people of Palestine.”
Trump praised Blair as a “good man” and said he would serve on a Board of Peace alongside other “distinguished leaders.” Blair in turn called the proposal “a bold and intelligent plan” that could end the war, secure Israel’s safety, bring relief to Gaza, and release hostages.
According to Israeli and Western media, Trump’s plan envisions Blair heading a new Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA) that would administer the enclave for several years with a UN mandate, while sidelining the Palestinian Authority until it undergoes reforms and elections.
But Blair’s record as a Middle East envoy has long been controversial. Palestinian commentators say he oversaw economic projects but failed to halt illegal settlement expansion or advance Palestinian statehood, often siding with Israel. His involvement in Gaza’s future has therefore been met with shock and skepticism.
Experts also warn the broader US plan risks becoming a “neocolonial takeover” of Gaza, with no firm guarantee that Palestinians will ultimately be allowed to govern themselves.
While the proposal claims to provide a “credible pathway” to a Palestinian state, Israel has already insisted it will maintain “security control” over Gaza.
Blair’s return to the region, against this backdrop, underscores the deep distrust many still harbor toward him.
For those scarred by Iraq and disillusioned by his past diplomacy, his new role in Gaza symbolizes not peace, but the repetition of old mistakes.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
