Yair Lapid proposed that Egypt govern Gaza for up to 15 years as a solution after the war, in exchange for debt relief. He emphasized the need to prevent Hamas from remaining in power. Egypt’s government rejected this plan, asserting the importance of Palestinian sovereignty and connection to the West Bank. Concurrently, Israel’s gas price demand complicates relations amidst the Gaza crisis.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid proposed a plan for Gaza’s governance post-war, advocating for Egypt to take control of the territory for up to 15 years. In exchange, he suggested that the international community relieve Egypt of its foreign debt, which currently exceeds $155 billion. Lapid emphasized that after the conflict on October 7, 2023, a new approach is necessary to prevent Hamas from remaining in power and recognizes that the Palestinian Authority is incapable of governing Gaza now.
At a Washington event hosted by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Lapid explained that Egypt’s involvement would bolster stability in the region. He praised President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi as a strong ally and a central figure in combating religious extremism. Lapid warned that the potential collapse of Egypt’s economy could lead to severe regional instability, emphasizing its importance to Middle East stability for nearly 50 years.
In response to Lapid’s comments, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry rejected the proposal, stating that any suggestions should align with Egypt and the Arab world’s long-term goals, including Israel’s withdrawal and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The ministry highlighted the importance of the Gaza Strip’s connection to the West Bank and East Jerusalem, reinforcing Palestine’s sovereignty.
Additionally, tensions arose as Israel reportedly linked its gas trade negotiations to Egypt’s willingness to accept displaced Palestinians from Gaza. Israel’s demand for a 40% increase in gas prices was viewed by Egyptian officials as an attempt to exert pressure regarding Gaza. An Egyptian government source confirmed that this demand was rejected, postponing the negotiations for future discussions.
In summary, Yair Lapid’s proposal for Egypt to govern Gaza aims to address both the internal Palestinian governance crisis and Egypt’s economic issues via debt relief. However, this initiative was met with swift rejection from Egypt, reaffirming its position on Palestinian sovereignty and the need for a comprehensive resolution. Concurrently, Israel’s gas trade tensions are adding complexity to the regional dynamics surrounding Gaza.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
