US Eyes Blair as Mideast Envoy

Outgoing British PM Tony Blair may step into a new role as a Mideast envoy focusing on the development of a viable Palestinian state, the Washington Post reports. Blair would concentrate on economic and governance issues; he would represent the quartet of world players involved in Mideast peace efforts—the US, the UN, the EU and Russia.

The appointment has been under discussion for two months.The Palestinians have not been approached about the idea, but US officials  expect it to be welcomed; Blair is in good standing with current Palestinian leaders, thought he is viewed as a strong supporter of Israel and a close Bush ally. Israeli PM Ehud Olmert is on board. (More Tony Blair stories.)