In a significant development concerning the future governance of Gaza following the ongoing conflict, former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen has publicly endorsed Tony Blair as the ideal candidate to lead a transitional administration. Cohen, a figure known for his strategic acumen and deep understanding of the region, believes Blair's involvement is crucial to prevent a further deterioration of the situation and ensure stability in the aftermath of hostilities.

Cohen's support for Blair's initiative stems from the critical question of who will manage Gaza and provide for its approximately 2.2 million residents once the conflict subsides. He emphasizes the urgent need for a capable leader to prevent the territory from falling back into the hands of Hamas or descending into chaos. This endorsement from a former intelligence leader carries considerable weight, suggesting a shared vision for a secure and stable future for the region.

Tony Blair, the former UK Prime Minister, has reportedly been working on a comprehensive "day after" plan for Gaza, which he presented to various stakeholders, including former US President Donald Trump. The proposed plan envisions Blair heading up the Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA), a UN-backed entity designed to oversee the region's recovery and governance until the Palestinian Authority (PA) is deemed capable of assuming control.

The GITA, as envisioned, would be supported by both the United Nations and various Gulf nations, providing the necessary resources and expertise to rebuild Gaza's infrastructure, restore essential services, and promote economic development. The core principle underpinning the plan is to avoid any displacement of the Gazan population, ensuring that the region's inhabitants can remain in their homes and communities.

Interestingly, Blair's plan inherently includes a provision for the eventual reintegration of Gaza under the authority of a reformed Palestinian Authority, potentially paving the way for a future Palestinian state. This aspect of the plan, however, clashes with the current stance of the Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which has strongly opposed the creation of a Palestinian state.

Cohen, while supporting Blair's leadership in the transitional phase, has expressed reservations about the feasibility and desirability of a Palestinian state in the immediate future. He argues that the Palestinian leadership, particularly Mahmoud Abbas, lacks the legitimacy and effectiveness to govern effectively, citing the Palestinian Authority's past failures as evidence.

Cohen's perspective reflects a deep skepticism regarding the current state of Palestinian governance, asserting that the Palestinian Authority has squandered opportunities and contributed to the region's instability. He points to past Israeli concessions, including the dismantling of settlements and withdrawal from certain areas, as evidence of a good-faith effort that was not reciprocated by effective leadership or a commitment to peace.

The endorsement of Blair by Cohen raises intriguing possibilities for future collaboration between the two leaders. Cohen, who has hinted at ambitions to succeed Netanyahu as Prime Minister of Israel, has expressed his willingness to work closely with Blair on various issues, praising his capabilities and experience.

Blair's initiative is not a spur-of-the-moment decision. Reportedly, he started formulating his plan for the post-war Gaza Strip shortly after October 7, indicating a proactive approach to addressing the complex challenges that lie ahead. His long-term engagement suggests a deep commitment to finding a sustainable solution for the region.

The proposed Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA) would ideally be based in el-Arish, the capital of Egypt’s North Sinai province, strategically located near Gaza's southern border. This location would allow for efficient coordination and logistical support for the reconstruction and stabilization efforts.

Under Blair's proposal, the GITA would be accompanied by a multinational force to ensure security and stability within the Gaza Strip. This force would provide a safe environment for the implementation of reconstruction projects and the delivery of essential services to the population.

Funding for the GITA would primarily come from Gulf nations, reflecting a shared interest in the region's stability and development. Sir Tony Blair would lead a team of up to 25 people and oversee a seven-person board, providing strategic direction and management oversight for the entire operation.

The ultimate goal of the GITA is to reunite Gaza and the West Bank under a reformed Palestinian Authority. This would require significant reforms within the PA to improve governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that it is capable of effectively serving the needs of its population.

The Tony Blair Institute has clarified that its discussions regarding post-war reconstruction in Gaza have not included any plans for the forcible relocation of people from the area. This assurance addresses concerns about potential displacement and underscores the commitment to preserving the Gazan population's right to remain in their homes.

Cohen's journey to becoming a key figure in Israeli security began early in life. He was the youngest-ever recruit of Mossad, Israel’s renowned intelligence agency, where he honed his skills and rose through the ranks. He served as the head of Mossad from 2016 to 2021, a period marked by significant geopolitical challenges and covert operations.

It's noteworthy that Donald Trump, known for his unconventional approach to foreign policy, seems to be leaning towards Blair's plan for Gaza. He has reportedly instructed Blair to garner support from regional partners and countries worldwide, indicating a level of confidence in Blair's ability to navigate the complex political landscape.

The concept of a "Riviera of the Middle East" in Gaza, once floated, appears to have been superseded by more practical and realistic proposals. This shift suggests a growing understanding of the challenges and complexities involved in rebuilding the region and creating a sustainable future for its people.

Trump's backing of Blair's roadmap implicitly acknowledges the potential for a future Palestinian state, a position that potentially puts him at odds with the current Israeli government's stance. This divergence highlights the complexities and competing interests involved in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Cohen's opposition to a two-state solution stems from his assessment of the current Palestinian leadership and the Palestinian Authority's past performance. He believes that the conditions are not conducive to a successful and sustainable Palestinian state at this time.

Cohen argues that the Palestinian leadership is weak and lacks legitimacy, pointing to Mahmoud Abbas's unelected status and declining popularity among Palestinians. He contends that the Palestinian Authority has failed to capitalize on past opportunities and has instead contributed to the region's instability.

The support for Tony Blair from Yossi Cohen, and the potential involvement of Donald Trump, signifies a compelling combination of political acumen, intelligence expertise, and international influence that could potentially shape the future of Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The coming months will be critical in determining whether Blair's plan gains traction and receives the necessary support from key stakeholders. The success of any transitional arrangement in Gaza will depend on effective leadership, international cooperation, and a genuine commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of the Gazan people.