Fri Jan 16 22:21:24 UTC 2026: ### Trump Appoints Blair to Gaza Oversight Committee, Sparking Condemnation

The Story:
Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair’s appointment to President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace,” tasked with overseeing the implementation of a 20-point plan to stabilize Gaza after the conflict with Israel, has triggered widespread criticism. The board, which also includes Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other prominent figures, aims to address governance, reconstruction, and investment in the region. However, Blair’s controversial past, particularly his involvement in the 2003 Iraq War, along with Kushner’s pro-Israel stance and past remarks about Palestinians, have fueled concerns about the board’s impartiality and effectiveness.

Key Points:

  • Donald Trump has created a “Board of Peace” to oversee Gaza’s stabilization.
  • Tony Blair, former UK Prime Minister, is named as a founding executive member.
  • Other members include Jared Kushner, Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, Marc Rowan, Ajay Banga, and Robert Gabriel.
  • Nickolay Mladenov will serve as the High Representative for Gaza.
  • The board aims to address governance, regional relations, reconstruction, investment, and capital mobilization.
  • Critics, including former Blair aide Ashish Prashar, denounce the board’s composition and question its impartiality.
  • The announcement follows the launch of the second phase of a US-brokered plan to end the conflict, focusing on demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction.

Key Takeaways:

  • The composition of Trump’s “Board of Peace” raises concerns about impartiality and potential bias towards Israeli interests.
  • Blair’s involvement is particularly controversial due to his past support for the Iraq War and perceived pro-Western foreign policy.
  • The plan faces skepticism from Palestinians who question the long-term impact and continued Israeli military actions in Gaza.
  • The inclusion of a UN component, through Mladenov’s role, is seen as crucial for the board’s credibility.
  • The success of the board hinges on addressing governance, security, and humanitarian needs in Gaza, but the current context of continued conflict and restricted aid access presents significant challenges.

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