Arab leaders have endorsed Egypt’s plan to rebuild Gaza, allowing Palestinians to stay, as a counter to Trump’s proposal to depopulate the territory. The plan emphasizes reconstruction without displacement, garnering support while facing criticism from Israel and cautious backing from the U.S. amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in the region.
Arab leaders have backed Egypt’s proposal to rebuild the Gaza Strip after the recent conflict, supporting a plan allowing nearly 2 million Palestinians to remain in their territory. This endorsement, made at a Cairo summit, counters President Trump’s controversial proposal aimed at the depopulation of Gaza for redevelopment as a beach resort. Egyptian President el-Sissi praised the regional agreement, emphasizing the importance of clarity and consensus among Arab nations concerning support for the reconstruction of Gaza while maintaining Palestinian presence on their land.
El-Sissi stated that the success of the reconstruction plan would require collaboration with the international community. He expressed eagerness to engage with Trump and other regional leaders to formulate a comprehensive solution for the Palestinian issue. The White House was cautious in its response, suggesting that while they appreciated regional contributions, Hamas must not maintain governance in Gaza.
Israeli officials criticized the Egyptian plan for not adequately addressing the realities on the ground, particularly failing to mention recent escalations involving Hamas. Israeli statements have reiterated support for Trump’s proposals, which advocate moving Gaza’s population, depicting this as a chance for Gazans to exercise their freedom through relocation.
Hamas welcomed the summit’s results, viewing them as a renewed commitment from Arab and Islamic states towards the Palestinian cause, rejecting the idea of forcibly relocating Palestinians. As Israel continues to push for a ceasefire agreement, it has imposed restrictions on supplies to Gaza, intensifying humanitarian concerns amid ongoing conflict.
The Egyptian strategy aims for the reconstruction of Gaza by 2030 without displacing its residents, beginning with clearing rubble and unexploded ordnance. The plan includes establishing temporary housing, repurposing debris for land expansion, creating sustainable communities, and potentially reopening ports and an airport. Notably, the Oslo Accords had previously envisioned similar developments that were left unattended as peace talks faltered.
The Egyptian initiative proposes establishing an international conference in partnership with the United Nations for Gaza’s reconstruction and the creation of a World Bank-managed fund for recovery efforts. The proposed restructuring involves temporary housing, nurturing green areas, and reviving agriculture and industry. A reshaping of Gaza is envisioned to support a better living standard for its residents.
Internal governance remains a contentious point, with Hamas indicating a willingness to cede control to an interim authority until a reformed Palestinian Authority might govern. However, Israel remains firm on its stance against any Palestinian Authority role in Gaza, maintaining that Hamas must disarm. Recent developments indicate continued resistance against Palestinian statehood aspirations from both Israeli officials and the U.S. administration.
In summary, Trump’s previous suggestion to relocate Gaza’s Palestinians sparked intense backlash from regional entities and rights advocates, emphasizing legality and humanitarian concerns. The war initiated by Hamas’s attacks on Israel resulted in significant casualties. Estimates report up to 48,000 Palestinian fatalities, predominately civilians, alongside considerable infrastructure devastation, leading to mass displacements within Gaza as humanitarian needs remain critical in the aftermath of the conflict.
The endorsement of Egypt’s reconstruction plan by Arab leaders represents a significant shift from U.S. proposals aimed at depopulating Gaza. This response highlights a unified Arab position prioritizing the rights of Palestinians to remain in their homeland. As discussions continue regarding Gaza’s future, the complexities of governance and aid provision are central to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.mankatofreepress.com
