Is Tony Blair right for Mid-East job?
Yes, I think Tony Blair is.
In fact, I think he is the best person for this job. I have read many very negative comments on this issue giving reasons that he is the wrong man.
For instance,
“War Criminal” turned “Peace Envoy”.
Tony Blair and George Bush have done more than anyone to create instability in the region. They invaded (illegally) Afghanistan and Iraq. Tony Blair didn’t do anything to defuse the crisis in the Lebanon last year. He should be brought in front of the International Criminal Court The Hague to stand trial for War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity.
Why should the Arabs and Palestinians listen to him?
They will not accept him. He is regarded as pro-American. He is regarded as pro-Israel. He does not understand Arab politics, he doesn’t have a clue on the nuances or value systems involved to deal with the people of the region. He is deeply unpopular in the region.
What exactly are his credentials?
How has he demonstrated that he would be a fair and honest broker. To be a peace envoy you have to be on the same distance from both parties, something Blair isn’t.
Tony Blair is a self-serving publicity seeker.
His one and only aim in life is to be famous. He is not right for any job that may involve the right thing or the best thing for anyone other than Tony Blair.
He sure does have an ‘image problem’ with many people and no amount of pr spin will solve that. Let us have a closer look at these objections. (more…)