For months now, Israel has facilitated two or three main gangs to fight Hamas in Gaza. It has been suspected that the “Tony Blair” plan to rule Gaza with armed security had actually depended upon these armed gangs. Now, one of the gang leaders has given credence to the plan.
Hossam al-Astal, the leader of a Khan Younis-based armed clan, has been receiving tailored access to aid from the Israelis, along with protection from airstrikes and freedom of action. Undoubtedly, access to weaponry is included. With these advantages, the small armed enclave that he set up has only attracted about 200 residents.
When asked how many were part of his militia, he told Britain’s The Telegraph: “I can’t say how many fighters we have. Right now, that’s very sensitive—we’re in a war.” A recent social media posting shows that he had eight armed militia members with him. Then, on his potential future boss, he said: “Tony Blair is a decent politician. I think his help can be useful, especially if it’s coming with an international agreement or mandate. We are ready to cooperate with anyone who will bring help to our people in Gaza.”
On his way to Israel today, U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to have taken counsel of some in the region and backed away from his assertion two weeks ago that former British Prime Minister Tony Blair would be involved. He told reporters on Air Force One: “First, I want to find out if Tony would be popular with all, because I just don’t know that.... I want to find out that he’s an acceptable choice to everybody.”
Previously, Blair had been the only person named by Trump to be on his Board of Peace for Gaza.
