Egypt is preparing to unveil a comprehensive two-phase reconstruction plan for Gaza, estimated at tens of billions of dollars. The initiative aims to rebuild infrastructure while grappling with regional opposition and concerns over Palestinian displacement and weapon management. A significant Arab summit in Saudi Arabia will discuss countering U.S. control proposals for Gaza, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Egypt’s proposed plan for Gaza’s reconstruction will be presented to U.S. President Donald Trump after gaining approval at upcoming summits in Riyadh and Cairo. However, there is significant division among Arab nations regarding this initiative. The plan, according to a high-ranking Egyptian diplomat, spans two phases and is projected to cost tens of billions of dollars.
The first phase, lasting ten years, aims to rebuild Gaza’s infrastructure and housing. It includes a strategy to redistribute the population, particularly reducing density in northern Gaza while establishing lower density areas near Israeli settlements. This segment has faced criticism from several Gulf states, particularly regarding clauses that allow residents to remain in their homes instead of being forcibly relocated.
Another critical component of the first phase is managing weaponry in the area. Egypt’s approach aims to comply with international donors’ conditions for funding Gaza’s reconstruction while respecting the demands of Palestinian armed groups to retain their arms until a Palestinian state is established. It proposes a regulatory framework under joint Egyptian and European oversight without complete disarmament.
Some diplomats argue that Egypt’s strategy may serve its own interests and allow Hamas to remain a point of contention for Israel, which could impede long-term regional stability. An Arab-led committee, led by Egypt, is also being considered to mediate between security forces and militant groups, building on existing efforts to assist displaced individuals.
The second phase of the plan, still pending discussion, will initiate the establishment of a Palestinian state, aiming to enhance connections between Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem. Notably, Israel requires full oversight of the reconstruction process to ensure Hamas does not gain strength during this period, even if it doesn’t directly engage.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is seeking unified Arab support against U.S. and Israeli resistance, especially since Israel has reportedly dismissed the plan, asserting it does not want Palestinian governance in Gaza. This context precedes an important summit in Saudi Arabia intended to counter Trump’s control proposal for Gaza, which has faced backlash internationally.
Umer Karim emphasized that the upcoming Arab summit will be pivotal for addressing the Palestinian issue and regional dynamics. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has supported the U.S. suggestion regarding Gaza, which includes the relocation of its Palestinian residents, raising concerns about humanitarian impacts in the region.
Egypt’s Gaza reconstruction plan is facing notable opposition among Arab nations while attempting to balance local needs and international donor expectations. Controversies regarding Palestinian displacement and the management of arms are at the forefront of discussions. The plan’s success hinges on obtaining unified Arab support amid significant Israeli resistance and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
