Sat Oct 04 20:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

**The Hindu: October 5, 2025**

**Blair to Play Key Role in Post-War Gaza Under Trump’s Peace Plan, Sparks Outrage**

**New Delhi:** Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is set to play a central role in the transitional governance of the Gaza Strip following the war, under a new peace plan spearheaded by U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan, heavily influenced by a proposal developed by Blair’s own think tank, the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, envisions an international body overseeing the region.

Under Trump’s proposal, a Palestinian committee would manage civic affairs, but ultimately report to a “Board of Peace” headed by Trump himself, with Blair among the prominent members. This structure mirrors Blair’s original Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA) concept, raising concerns about Palestinian autonomy and the concentration of power in Western hands.

Critics point out that Palestinians were not consulted in the drafting of the plan. The appointment of Blair, a figure associated with controversial interventions like the Iraq War, has been met with strong condemnation. Some critics have likened the situation to placing an arsonist in charge of firefighting.

Blair’s involvement has reignited debate over his legacy. While lauded for brokering the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland, his support for the Iraq War has made him a divisive figure. His previous role as Middle East Envoy for the Quartet (US, UN, EU, and Russia) was widely seen as unsuccessful, with critics claiming he prioritized Israeli interests and failed to address Palestinian concerns.

Concerns are also raised about the financial aspects of the reconstruction plan, with the “Board of Peace” managing the framework and funding, potentially involving billionaire investors. Critics argue this model could prioritize financial interests over the needs of the Palestinian people.

The plan underscores the challenges of achieving lasting peace in the region, particularly given the lack of Palestinian input and the controversial figure of Tony Blair at its center.

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