**Blair Joins Trump and Starmer at Historic Gaza Summit** Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair is set to attend a significant peace summit in Egypt on Monday, alongside Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer. This summit aims to address the post-war governance of Gaza, following the recent conflict in the region. Blair's involvement comes despite objections from Hamas regarding his appointment to Trump’s Board of Peace.

On Sunday, Blair received crucial support from Hussein Al Sheikh, the vice president of the Palestinian Authority (PA). Al Sheikh's backing is seen as pivotal, especially as Hamas retreats from Gaza. He expressed readiness to collaborate with Blair and Trump to maintain a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid. Al Sheikh stated, "We have confirmed our readiness to work with President Trump, Mr. Blair and the partners to consolidate the ceasefire, the entry of aid, the release of hostages and prisoners, and then start with the recovery and reconstruction."

Hamas has publicly opposed Blair's role, citing his historical involvement in the Middle East, particularly the Iraq War, as a reason for exclusion. A senior Hamas official remarked that Blair's past should disqualify him from participating in the peace process. However, diplomatic sources indicate that the focus for Hamas is on non-Hamas Palestinian representation in the governance of Gaza, rather than on Blair's appointment.

Blair, who previously served as the Middle East envoy for the international community, is expected to play a prominent role in shaping the governance plan for Gaza after Hamas. Insiders suggest that if Trump desires Blair's presence on the Board of Peace, he will be included regardless of Hamas's objections.

The peace summit will also see Starmer attending the signing ceremony of the Gaza peace plan. Reports indicate that the UK is poised to play a crucial role in the reconstruction of Gaza, facilitating discussions between Palestinian representatives and private finance firms. This initiative is expected to coincide with the planned release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and 250 Palestinian prisoners.

As the summit approaches, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that will lead to lasting peace in the region.