Tony Blair Joins Trump at White House to Discuss Postwar Gaza Plans

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair met with Donald Trump at the White House to discuss strategies for postwar Gaza. The meeting took place on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, and included discussions on the future governance of the region once hostilities cease. Blair, who served as the Middle East envoy from 2007 to 2015, has been actively involved in efforts to establish a two-state solution during his time in Jerusalem.

In addition to Blair, Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and former senior adviser, attended the meeting. Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Middle East envoy, revealed that the U.S. is crafting a “very comprehensive” plan for the day following the cessation of the conflict. In an interview prior to the meeting, Witkoff expressed optimism that the war in Gaza could conclude within four months, stating, “We’re going to settle this one way or another, certainly before the end of this year.”

Witkoff emphasized that the plan aims to reflect President Trump’s humanitarian intentions. While specific details of the proposals were not disclosed, the White House reiterated Trump’s commitment to ending the conflict and promoting peace and prosperity in the region.

The discussions come amid increasing international concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Pope Leo XIV has publicly urged Israel to cease what he termed a “collective punishment” of the population. Reports indicate that ten Palestinians, including two children, died from starvation in the past 24 hours. Since the onset of the conflict, health authorities in Gaza report that over 313 individuals, including 119 children, have succumbed to hunger.

The Pope called for a permanent ceasefire and the facilitation of humanitarian aid during a recent address at the Vatican. He invoked international law, highlighting its prohibition against collective punishment and the indiscriminate use of force. His plea resonated with the audience, prompting applause as he advocated for an immediate end to hostilities.

In the context of escalating violence, Israeli tanks advanced into the outskirts of Gaza City overnight, resulting in the destruction of homes and the displacement of residents. Reports indicate that Israeli forces shelled the Ebad al-Rahman neighborhood, causing injuries and further chaos. In the preceding 24 hours, at least 76 individuals were killed across Gaza, according to local health authorities.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with both humanitarian and political implications. As leaders discuss the potential for a postwar plan, the urgency for a resolution grows amid a backdrop of increasing loss of life and suffering.