Is Tony Blair a smart man?

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is unsatisfied with the limited scope of his role as Middle East envoy, the Financial Times reports:

Mr Blair wants a broad mandate that would include a political role in peacemaking between Israel and the Palestinians, beyond the more narrowly focused terms of reference set out by the Quartet in announcing his new position as “representative” on June 27.

That statement focused on the practicalities of helping the Palestinians build the institutions and governance needed for a future state. It also included a vaguer remit to “liaise” with other countries in support of agreed Quartet principles.

Gee, who woulda thunk that this would be a problem? And here we see the problem with Tony Blair—an articulate speaker and a passionate advocate for his favorite causes. And yet, Blair just isn't very good at using leverage, which is the key to making things happen in international politics. The smart play would have been to say, "OK, George, so you want me as Middle East envoy? Here's what I'll need before I take this job." Obviously, Blair didn't do that.