Tony Blair was named on Friday by US President Donald Trump as a member of the new board. The panel is meant to help oversee Gaza after the war and support future governance.

On Saturday, Blair said he was “honored” to be chosen. He said he looks forward to working with “other colleagues in line with the president’s vision to promote peace and prosperity.”

He also praised the creation of a Palestinian committee formed to manage post-war Gaza. The group, led by former Palestinian Authority deputy minister Ali Shaath, began work in Cairo.

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Blair called the committee “a massive step forward”. He said it offers hope to people in Gaza for a better future and reassurance to Israelis about their security.

Some reports say Blair helped shape Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan. He is believed to have worked closely with Trump’s son-in-law and adviser, Jared Kushner.

Blair is no stranger to the region. He previously served eight years as envoy for the Middle East Quartet, which included the EU, UN, US and Russia.

However, his return has sparked debate online. Many social media users recalled his support for claims about Iraqi weapons that were used to justify the 2003 Iraq war.

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Trump has declared himself chair of the Board of Peace. He said its members include Blair, Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff.

The White House said the board brings together leaders with experience in diplomacy, development, infrastructure, and economic planning.