The article discusses the challenges of rebuilding Gaza post-conflict and reviving the peace process, focusing on Egypt’s reconstruction plan that excludes Hamas from power. Amid unprecedented destruction, estimated rebuilding costs are pegged at $60 billion, with Egypt advocating comprehensive reforms in the Palestinian Authority to secure international support. Addressing humanitarian needs without displacing residents into Egypt is a priority for Cairo.
The concept of “the day after in Gaza” presents a significant challenge, not only in terms of rebuilding the war-torn region but also in reinitiating the stalled peace process since the Oslo Accords. It is crucial to separate the legitimate resistance against occupation from the actions of Hamas, whose past mistakes have impacted both the Palestinian people and the future of the Palestinian cause.
Gaza has faced extensive destruction in the last two decades due to Hamas’s miscalculations, resulting in the need for billions in reconstruction funds from Gulf and Arab nations each time. Currently, the devastation is unprecedented with around 60,000 fatalities, over 120,000 injuries, and 90% of infrastructure destroyed. The United Nations estimates that rebuilding Gaza will require $60 billion.
During the recent Arab Summit in Cairo, Egypt introduced a reconstruction plan aimed at keeping Gaza’s residents in their homes. This plan contrasts sharply with a previous proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump that suggested relocating Palestinians while transforming Gaza into an upscale tourist destination. Trump’s AI-generated video of this vision has sparked outrage in Palestinian and Arab communities.
Crucially, Egypt’s reconstruction strategy is based on a pivotal condition: “Gaza cannot be rebuilt while Hamas remains in power.” Financial backers stress their intent to avoid past mistakes. Consequently, any future political framework must gain international legitimacy and be coordinated with the Palestinian Authority (PA), effectively excluding Hamas from control.
The events following the October 7 war underscore how Hamas has become a liability not only for Palestinians but also for the broader region. Effective reconstruction must ensure that another cycle of violence does not ensue, which necessitates removing Hamas from power but preserving the legitimate right to resistance in a non-destructive manner. This reality presents numerous complexities, as Hamas retains considerable military influence in Gaza.
Hamas’s recent announcement, occurring just after the Arab Summit, indicated support for the reconstruction plan and calls for Palestinian elections. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s speech laid the groundwork for elections by offering amnesty to dismissed members, facilitating potential political unity. The PA aims to revitalize its leadership and reform governmental institutions.
Egypt’s reconstruction initiative targets the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and seeks to establish long-term stability amidst the destruction caused by ongoing airstrikes. Various strategies are under consideration, including selecting contractors, incorporating solar energy technology, and recycling debris while addressing safety concerns with unexploded ordnance.
Additionally, political reforms within the PA are essential for attracting international donor financing from nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Negotiations are in progress regarding a temporary Palestinian administration composed of neutral technocrats, alongside an oversight agency to monitor the transparent expenditure of reconstruction funds.
For Egyptian authorities, Gaza’s rebuilding must fit into a wider peace framework addressing mutual security concerns and preventing potential reoccupation of Gaza and the West Bank. Egypt aims to balance humanitarian aid with strategic political action while maintaining a firm stance against the large-scale displacement of Palestinians into its borders, as this would undermine the very foundation of the Palestinian cause: their right to land.
The future of Gaza hinges on a multifaceted approach that addresses both reconstruction needs and political reform. Egypt’s strategic plan prioritizes the reintegration of Gaza’s residents while excluding Hamas from power to secure international support for reconstruction efforts. Establishing a legitimate political framework and addressing humanitarian crises are crucial for rebuilding Gaza without recurring cycles of violence. Egypt’s role is pivotal in balancing humanitarian responsibilities with regional security imperatives.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
