Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has been removed from consideration for US President Donald Trump’s proposed “board of peace” for Gaza following objections from several Arab and Muslim countries, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Blair had been the only publicly identified individual for the board when Trump unveiled his 20-point peace plan in late September, describing the former UK leader as a “very good man.” Blair had expressed willingness to serve, calling the proposal “bold and intelligent.”
Several Arab and Muslim states reportedly opposed Blair’s inclusion due to lingering distrust from his strong support for the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. Diplomats also expressed concerns that Palestinians could be marginalized within the proposed governance structure.
Despite these claims, Blair’s office declined to comment, and an ally argued that the regional backlash was not the reason for his removal.
Instead, the ally said the board would be composed exclusively of serving world leaders, which technically disqualified Blair as a former prime minister. Blair is expected to play a significant role on a smaller executive committee alongside Jared Kushner, Trump adviser Steve Witkoff, and senior officials from Arab and Western nations.
Trump had previously acknowledged the potential for objections to Blair’s nomination, stating that he wanted to ensure Blair was “an acceptable choice to everybody.”
The situation highlights broader sensitivities around Blair’s legacy in the Middle East and the political feasibility of including him in a high-profile governance structure for Gaza.
Blair has maintained involvement in Gaza planning since leaving Downing Street in 2007, serving as a Middle East envoy and coordinating through the Tony Blair Institute with Kushner on proposals for more than a year.
While he will not join the board, sources indicate he could still take on a role in Gaza’s future governance in a different capacity, with support from both American and Israeli officials.
Progress on Trump’s 20-point plan has been limited since its announcement over two months ago. Gaza remains divided, with areas controlled separately by Hamas and Israeli forces, creating challenges for implementing new governance structures. Additional appointments to the “board of peace” are yet to be announced.
