Hamas expresses skepticism over foreign efforts to prevent Palestinian displacement amidst the Gaza conflict. Egypt leads a reconstruction initiative focused on preserving Palestinian presence. International and Arab partnerships are forming to support this effort, addressing housing, infrastructure, and humanitarian needs while navigating geopolitical dynamics.
Political sources within Hamas indicate a significant concern over insufficient international action to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Amid fears of Palestinian displacement, Arab governments are now working with Egypt to propose a reconstruction plan aimed at maintaining the Palestinian presence in Gaza. This plan contrasts sharply with proposals from former US President Donald Trump that threaten to displace Gazans.
Egypt is spearheading the reconstruction initiative due to its geographic proximity, prioritizing its own security and economic interests. Working alongside other Arab nations and seeking international support, Egypt is focused on ensuring that Palestinians remain in Gaza during reconstruction efforts. Plans to organize a conference have begun, aiming to facilitate a rebuilding phase where displaced families can remain.
The reconstruction strategy divides Gaza into three humanitarian zones, each equipped with essential amenities for devastated families. The introduction of prefabricated housing will provide immediate shelter while debris is cleared, although the Israeli occupation poses challenges to these efforts. Aid organizations are striving to restore aid flow to pre-conflict levels, ensuring the entry of critical construction materials.
This ambitious plan seeks funding from Arab and international entities, with the involvement of numerous multinational construction firms. An idea for an Arab-led fundraising effort, potentially named the “Trump Fund for Rebuilding Gaza,” has surfaced in discussions. They also plan to implement a buffer zone along the Gaza-Egypt border to inhibit tunnel construction.
As the reconstruction progresses, the Egyptian Engineers Syndicate alongside the Arab Engineers Union will develop a strategic oversight committee. They estimate that achieving the reconstruction objectives could take between three to five years, depending on international support levels. Critical infrastructure must be prioritized, including sanitation and communication systems, before embarking on urban development.
In contrast, the Palestinian Authority is also proposing its own reconstruction plan, with an initial phase projected to cost $20 billion. Plans for this phase include emergency interventions over three years, followed by large-scale reconstruction efforts estimated at $33 billion. The PA’s involvement signals broader layers of Palestinian governance in the reconstruction strategy.
Egypt’s reconstruction approach is multi-faceted, ensuring long-term planning along with immediate response strategies. Historical tensions in Gaza play a significant role in shaping these plans, as Egypt has viewed its influence over Gaza strategically for years. Various stakeholders are involved in planning to maintain Gaza’s social structure and restore familial relationships disrupted by the conflict.
Details regarding housing execution focus on organizing prefabricated homes while prioritizing community integrity among families. New residential designs aim to cater to social and cultural dynamics. As reconstruction advances, locations for rubble clearance have already been designated, contrasting Israeli preferences.
Political negotiations continue as Egypt interacts with both Hamas and the PA regarding compensation and design specifics. Ongoing challenges at the Rafah crossing and stringent Israeli controls hinder timely execution of plans, including aid delivery. Egypt’s driving ambition behind the reconstruction lies in maintaining regional influence and preparedness in a dynamically changing political landscape.
The proposed Egyptian reconstruction plan for Gaza aims to address the urgent need for humanitarian aid while preventing Palestinian displacement. By coordinating with Arab nations and various stakeholders, Egypt seeks to ensure the preservation of Gaza’s social fabric throughout the reconstruction process. The success of these endeavors will be contingent on balancing various geopolitical interests while maintaining a sustainable, peaceful environment for Gaza’s residents.
Original Source: thecradle.co
