Former British prime minister Tony Blair has been removed from consideration for Donald Trump’s proposed “board of peace” for Gaza after several Arab and Muslim countries objected to his inclusion, according to people familiar with the discussions.
The development marks a significant shift in Trump’s 20-point plan to end the war between Israel and Hamas.
Arab and Muslim states object to Blair’s nomination
Blair was the only individual publicly identified for the board when US President Trump unveiled his peace plan in late September, describing the former UK leader as a “very good man.” Blair responded at the time by calling the proposal “bold and intelligent,” signalling he would be willing to serve on the board, which is to be chaired by Trump.
However, multiple Arab and Muslim states pushed back, citing deep distrust stemming from Blair’s staunch support for the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. Diplomats also raised concerns that Palestinians risked being sidelined within the proposed governance structure.
Blair’s allies dispute claims he was rejected
Blair’s office declined to comment on the matter. But an ally dismissed suggestions that regional backlash was the reason Blair would not be serving on the “board of peace.”
According to the ally, the board will be composed exclusively of serving world leaders, technically disqualifying Blair due to his status as a former prime minister. Instead, the ally said Blair is expected to play a major role on a smaller executive committee, which will include Jared Kushner, Trump adviser Steve Witkoff, and senior officials from Arab and Western nations.
In October, Trump himself noted that Blair’s candidacy could face objections. “I’ve always liked Tony, but I want to find out that he’s an acceptable choice to everybody,” he said at the time.
The hesitation reflects broader sensitivities surrounding Blair’s legacy in the Middle East and the political viability of including him in a high-profile governance structure for Gaza.
Blair’s long-running involvement in Gaza planning
After leaving Downing Street in 2007, Blair served as a Middle East envoy and has continued working on Gaza proposals for more than a year. Operating through the Tony Blair Institute, he has coordinated closely with Kushner, who served as the US Middle East envoy during Trump’s first term.
A separate source familiar with ongoing talks said Blair could still be given a role elsewhere in Gaza’s future governance. “He could still have a role in a different capacity and that seems likely,” the person said, adding: “The Americans like him and the Israelis like him.”
Peace plan stalls amid divided Gaza
Trump’s 20-point plan has made little progress since its announcement over two months ago, despite being introduced alongside a fragile ceasefire. Gaza remains divided, with areas controlled separately by Hamas and Israeli forces, complicating momentum toward new governance structures.
When unveiling the plan, Trump said additional members of the “board of peace” -- expected to include heads of state -- would be named “in the next few days.” So far, no appointments have been announced.
