Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is working with Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law and former Middle East envoy, on a “comprehensive plan” for the future of Gaza, according to a report by The Times UK. Blair joined discussions at the White House on Wednesday as Trump seeks to advance his vision of transforming the war-torn enclave into what he once described as a “riviera of the Middle East.”
Sources told The Times UK that Blair has spent months collaborating with Kushner on proposals to rebuild Gaza as a trade hub and resort destination. The plans are being discussed amid intensifying conflict: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled a new assault on Gaza City to eliminate Hamas, while the United Nations has declared a famine in the territory.
A White House official said the meeting with Blair and Kushner covered “all aspects” of the Gaza crisis, including humanitarian aid and efforts to free hostages. Blair, who served as special envoy for the Quartet on the Middle East from 2007 to 2015, has maintained close ties in the region and has been coordinating with Steve Witkoff, Trump’s current envoy.
The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change said it has engaged with a range of organizations presenting postwar ideas for Gaza but stressed that it “has never authored, developed or endorsed” any proposals involving the relocation of Gazans.
The talks come as Britain considers joining France in recognizing a Palestinian state at the UN next month if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire — a condition many analysts view as unlikely given Netanyahu’s stated positions.
Trump has previously floated controversial ideas about Gaza, including U.S. “ownership” of the territory and the construction of a resort, suggestions that drew sharp criticism for ignoring Palestinian sovereignty. Nevertheless, his aides insist the current plan reflects what Witkoff described as “President Trump’s humanitarian motives” and could bring a “conclusive ending” to the conflict by year’s end.
Asked about Blair’s involvement, a White House spokesperson said only: “President Trump has been clear that he wants the war to end, and he wants peace and prosperity for everyone in the region.”
