Trump Unveils Gaza Peace Plan, Enlists Tony Blair for Oversight
US President Donald Trump has proposed a new 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. The plan includes a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the establishment of a "New Gaza" governed by a technocratic Palestinian committee overseen by an international body. Notably, Trump himself would chair a "Board of Peace," with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair slated to play a key role.
Key Elements of the Peace Plan
The proposed agreement hinges on acceptance by both Hamas and Israel. Upon agreement, the plan outlines several critical steps:
- An immediate end to the war and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces.
- Within 72 hours, the return of all living Israeli hostages and the remains of deceased hostages.
- In exchange, Israel would release 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained since October 7, 2023.
- "Full aid" would be immediately sent to Gaza.
- A multinational stabilization force would be deployed to support security and train local police.
- A demilitarized Gaza would be governed by a "technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee," supervised by Trump's "Board of Peace."
The Role of Tony Blair and the "Board of Peace"
Donald Trump has named Tony Blair as a key figure in the plan, positioning him to help oversee Gaza's transition. Blair is set to be a member of the "Board of Peace," chaired by Trump, which will supervise the governance of Gaza if Hamas accepts the proposal. This board would coordinate with Israel and Gulf Arab states, manage funding for reconstruction, and oversee security via an International Stabilization Force.
Blair has described Trump's peace plan as "the best chance of ending two years of war, misery and suffering." He added that Trump’s willingness to chair the Board signals immense support and confidence in Gaza’s future and promotes the possibility of peace.
Reactions and Concerns
The plan has drawn mixed reactions. While Netanyahu has signaled his support, Hamas's response remains uncertain. A senior Hamas official stated that the group is open to studying proposals that safeguard Palestinian interests, ensure a full Israeli withdrawal, and bring the war to an end.
Blair’s involvement has raised eyebrows among some, given his role in the Iraq War. However, supporters point to his pivotal role in brokering the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland. Some Palestinians view his role with skepticism, citing his past support for Israel and his involvement in the Iraq War.
| Plan Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Ceasefire | Immediate end to hostilities upon agreement. |
| Hostage Release | All hostages returned within 72 hours of Israeli acceptance. |
| Prisoner Exchange | Israel releases 250 life-sentence prisoners and 1,700 Gazans. |
| Aid Delivery | Immediate and unrestricted aid to Gaza. |
| Governance | Technocratic Palestinian committee under the "Board of Peace." |
| Security | International Stabilization Force deployment. |
| Statehood | Pathway to Palestinian statehood contingent on Palestinian Authority reforms. |
Future Implications and Challenges
The success of Trump's peace plan hinges on Hamas's acceptance and the willingness of all parties to compromise. The plan also raises questions about the long-term role of the Palestinian Authority and the feasibility of establishing a lasting peace in the region. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this proposal can pave the way for a more stable and secure future for Gaza.
