Amanze Chinonye
Hamas has welcomed reports that former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has been removed from the proposed Gaza “board of peace,” with the group citing his perceived pro-Israel bias as a key concern.
Speaking to media outlets, senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu described Blair’s reported exclusion as “a step in the right direction,” adding that the group has long pressed mediators to exclude him due to what he called “blatant bias towards the occupation.”
Al-Nunu also reiterated that Hamas would not accept any plan to disarm Gaza under international oversight. “Disarmament only makes sense in the context of a fully sovereign Palestinian state,” he said, emphasizing that the group has not seen any credible framework for how such an international force would operate.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelInstead, al-Nunu suggested that Hamas is willing to hand over administrative governance of Gaza, but only to an independent, Palestinian technocratic committee. “Any committee must be national and independent,” he added.
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The report comes amid ongoing efforts to establish a post-conflict governance structure in Gaza, spearheaded by U.S.-backed initiatives under the Trump-era diplomatic framework. The plan envisaged a “board of peace” to oversee reconstruction, administration, and stabilization in the territory, with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair initially slated to play a leading role due to his international experience.
Hamas has consistently rejected any foreign-led intervention that it believes undermines Palestinian sovereignty, emphasizing that disarmament under international oversight is unacceptable.
The removal of Blair follows widespread opposition from Arab and Muslim-majority states, as well as Palestinian factions, over his controversial legacy and perceived partiality. Blair had been slated to play a leading role in the board, which is intended to oversee reconstruction and governance in Gaza following ongoing conflict.
Despite the move, core issues remain unresolved. Hamas’ stance on weapons and security continues to diverge sharply from proposals by international mediators. While some Hamas officials have indicated a willingness to consider “freezing or storing” arms under certain guarantees, the group remains firm that disarmament by foreign forces is unacceptable.
Analysts say the removal of Blair may ease tensions around the governance structure of Gaza, but the question of disarmament and the role of international forces is likely to remain a major sticking point in any peace plan.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
