Arab leaders endorsed Egypt’s $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza, countering Trump’s proposal to displace its residents. The plan aims to establish peace and stability by allowing Palestinians to remain in the region while rebuilding infrastructure. This initiative has garnered support from Hamas but faced criticism from Israel and mixed responses from the Trump administration, amid ongoing humanitarian issues in Gaza.
Arab leaders have supported Egypt’s proposed plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, which aims to retain its population and stand in stark contrast to U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision of depopulating the area for redevelopment as a tourist destination. The Cairo summit saw leaders backing a $53 billion initiative that prioritizes Palestinian residents staying in their homeland without forced displacement, receiving warm responses from Hamas but cold reactions from Israel and the Trump administration.
Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi praised the consensus reached among Arab countries, emphasizing the importance of a plan that provides stability for Palestinians while ensuring an end to the root causes of the conflict. He envisions collaboration with international partners to settle the Palestinian issue comprehensively.
Following the summit, the U.S. expressed openness to input from Arab nations while reiterating that Hamas could not remain in authority in Gaza. Israeli officials criticized the Egyptian plan, arguing it neglects the realities of the situation and called for a resettlement approach instead. Egypt’s Foreign Minister condemned this viewpoint as an extremist position counter to peace.
Hamas hailed the summit’s outcomes for reinforcing Arab solidarity with Palestinian rights while rejecting the notion of relocating Gazans elsewhere as suggested in Trump’s proposals. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified, particularly due to Israel’s controversial blockade of essential supplies following the ceasefire’s initial stage.
Egypt’s reconstruction strategy stipulates clearing debris from the recent conflict while planning environmentally friendly urban developments and infrastructure. The first phase includes addressing hazardous remnants of war and preparing for a broader rebuilding effort to create sustainable living environments. The framework seeks to develop new housing, agricultural zones, and transportation links.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit stated that peace is crucial for regional stability, emphasizing adherence to UN resolutions that call for Palestinian self-determination. The plan includes establishing a financial trust fund to support Gaza’s rehabilitation and hosting an international donor conference, ensuring a commitment to Palestine’s future security.
In summary, the Cairo summit’s endorsement of Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza indicates a clear rejection of Trump’s proposal to relocate the Palestinian population. The plan envisages a sustainable future for Gaza residents, focusing on rebuilding essential infrastructure while maintaining their right to inhabit the area. As humanitarian crises escalate, the commitment from Arab leaders to support reconstruction may provide a vital framework for stabilizing the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
