Blair denies role in reported Palestinian textbook pressure

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has denied allegations he pressured the Palestinian Authority to remove the word "Palestine" from school textbooks.

By Middle East Affairs

September 8, 2026

A man in a dark business suit and red patterned tie speaks at a podium with microphones, gesturing with both hands, with LSE (London School of Economics) signage visible on the wall behind him. — Ilustrasi. Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair speaking at the London School of Economics. Blair has denied allegations that he pressured Palestinian authorities regarding school textbooks. Photo: Flickr Commons / Wikimedia Commons (No restrictions)

1 min read

Text size

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair on Thursday categorically denied allegations that he had pressured the Palestinian Authority to remove the word "Palestine" from school textbooks. According to Middle East Eye, a regional news outlet, Blair was recently sent to carry out the request on behalf of what the outlet described as Donald Trump's Board of Peace.

Blair's denial came directly in response to the Middle East Eye report, which claimed he had been tasked with approaching Palestinian Authority officials about the textbook changes. The nature and scope of the alleged pressure were not detailed in available reports.

Related coverage

Oxford historian discusses UK legal liability for Palestinian displacement

An Oxford historian has outlined arguments in a legal campaign seeking British acknowledgement of historical responsibility for Palestinian displacement.

Interviews

Israeli settlers kill two Palestinians in West Bank village raid

At least 76 Palestinians have been killed in 2026 during settler attacks in the West Bank, prompting warnings from the United Nations and international organizations.

Palestine

Israel issues land seizure orders in West Bank Area A

Israeli authorities have issued orders to seize land in the occupied West Bank, including territory under Palestinian control, according to Amnesty International.

Palestine

More Coverage

Video shows Israeli forces firing near elderly Palestinian in Beit Lahia

Video circulating on social media shows Israeli forces firing on an elderly Palestinian civilian in Gaza's Beit Lahia, with bullets striking the ground nearby.

Palestine1 min read

Gazans turn aid pallets into furniture as timber remains scarce

As Israeli restrictions prevent new timber from entering Gaza, residents have begun dismantling wooden shipping pallets to build furniture and rebuild homes.

Palestine2 min read

MEA

Former Palestinian PM says Israel pursuing "silent annexation" of West Bank

Former Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh says Israel is pursuing gradual annexation of the West Bank despite international opposition, with settlers now comprising over a quarter of the territory's population.

Palestine1 min read