A leaked confidential document reveals a plan to create an International Transitional Authority for Gaza (GITA), which would govern the Gaza Strip after the war. The former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, could potentially head this organization – a move that critics say would weaken Palestinian self-rule and effectively separate Gaza from the West Bank.

According to the draft, obtained by the newspapers *The Guardian* and *Haaretz*, the administration of Gaza would be largely managed by foreign officials. Palestinians would play only a minor role. The document also mentions the creation of an investment and development agency funded by international partners and private investors, with the aim of generating "commercially viable returns."

Foreign Names, Palestinians in the Background

The text does not mention any Palestinian politicians by name, but it suggests the possible involvement of foreign figures, such as the Egyptian billionaire Naguib Sawiris or the investor Marc Rowan. Only one Palestinian would be on the GITA board – "from the business or security sector."

The board, consisting of 7-10 members and approved by the UN Security Council, would have binding legislative authority, make decisions on key appointments, and report to the UN. The chairman, likely Blair, would set the political and security direction, negotiate with Israel, Egypt, and the United States – without mentioning the Palestinian Authority.

Palestinian Concerns: Division and Colonialism

Palestinian officials strongly criticize the proposal. According to former member of the Palestinian negotiating team, Xavier Abu Eid, the foreign majority would "make legislative decisions for the Palestinians." He argues that this is a dangerous precedent that would legitimize the separation of Gaza from the West Bank – a violation of principles recognized even in the Oslo Accords.

The Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Initiative, Mustafa Barghouti, warned that Blair has a poor reputation in Palestinian territories due to his role in Iraq and his time as a special envoy of the Quartet. "Such a plan would be a disaster for the Palestinians," he added.

Blair and His Position

According to sources, Blair was indeed interested in the position at the head of GITA, and the White House supports the proposal. However, his office emphasized that "Gaza is for the people of Gaza" and that any scenario involving displacement is unacceptable. The document also states that the transitional authority should eventually transfer administration to the Palestinian Authority as a step towards a Palestinian state.

In recent months, Blair has met with President Mahmoud Abbas and with Donald Trump, who is expected to soon present his own peace plan: an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages within 48 hours, and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

An Uncertain Future for Gaza

The GITA proposal raises more questions than answers. Palestinian leaders warn of the risk that Gaza could remain under international control without legitimate Palestinian representation. Critics warn that instead of a path to peace, a parallel system of governance could be created – with Palestinians once again relegated to the sidelines.

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