The White House has unveiled a star-studded but controversial lineup for its new Gaza "Board of Peace," featuring former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

This "Founding Executive Board," chaired by President Donald Trump himself, is tasked with the monumental job of overseeing the reconstruction of the war-torn enclave. However, the inclusion of polarizing figures has already drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian leaders and international observers who view it as a Western-imposed solution.

A Board of "Colonial" proportions?

The composition of the board is heavily skewed towards Trump loyalists and Western diplomats. Alongside Blair and Rubio, the board includes Jared Kushner, the architect of the Abraham Accords, and World Bank chief Ajay Banga.

• The Mandate: To manage the "stabilization and long-term success" of Gaza, effectively acting as a temporary government.
• The Criticism: Critics argue the board lacks Palestinian representation and legitimacy. "It resembles a colonial administration," noted one Middle East analyst.
• Tony Blair’s Role: The former PM’s return to Middle East diplomacy is contentious given his history with the Iraq War and previous envoy roles.

For the people of Gaza, still reeling from conflict, the announcement brings little immediate hope. The board promises investment and development, but without a clear political horizon for statehood, many fear it is simply a gilded cage designed to manage the occupation rather than end it.