Yair Lapid proposes Egypt to manage Gaza for eight years, potentially extending to 15 years, in exchange for debt relief. This initiative aims to stabilize Egypt’s economy while addressing Gaza’s needs. Control would eventually shift to a reformed Palestinian Authority, with Egypt leading a peace effort alongside Gulf states.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid proposed that Egypt manage and secure the Gaza Strip for an initial eight years, with the possibility of extending this period to 15 years. In exchange, the international community would provide substantial debt relief to Egypt, which faces significant financial challenges exacerbated by decreased tourism and the ongoing war in Gaza.
Lapid indicated that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi may find the proposal appealing given Egypt’s external debt of over $155 billion and the urgent need for financial stability. Under the proposal, once the infrastructure and security issues in Gaza are addressed, governance would eventually transition to a reformed Palestinian Authority.
During a speech at the Foundation for Defence of Democracies in Washington, Lapid noted that he had not previously discussed this idea with Egyptian officials but anticipated that Egypt would initially reject the proposal before reconsidering. He highlighted historical context, as Egypt administered Gaza from 1948 to 1956 and again from 1957 until the 1967 war.
Lapid stressed that the proposal is not about annexation but rather about effective management of Gaza, stating, “Nobody’s asking them to annex Gaza. We are asking them to manage Gaza for 15 years.” He emphasized Egypt’s potential role in leading a coalition for peace and rebuilding efforts in Gaza with support from Gulf states and the international community.
Additionally, Lapid acknowledged the persistent threat posed by Hamas, advocating for collaborative efforts to prevent terrorism and ensure stability in the region. He concluded by reaffirming the importance of international cooperation to facilitate the management and recovery of Gaza, framing the proposal as a feasible solution for both Egypt and the Palestinian territories.
Yair Lapid’s proposal advocates for Egypt to oversee Gaza’s management and security as a means of addressing economic instability in Egypt while providing a path for Gaza’s recovery. The proposal emphasizes collaboration with the international community and a phased return to Palestinian governance. Overall, this initiative aims to strike a balance between regional responsibilities and the complex realities of governance in Gaza.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
