Arab leaders are meeting in Egypt to approve a counterproposal to Trump’s Gaza plan, which advocated for the depopulation of the region. The alternative plan suggests relocating Palestinians within Gaza and rebuilding infrastructure, with Hamas stepping aside for an interim administration. President Abbas attended the summit amidst ongoing tensions, as Israel remains opposed to any Palestinian Authority role in Gaza.
Leaders from Arab nations convened in Egypt to formally endorse a counterproposal addressing President Trump’s controversial Gaza plan, which proposed depopulating Gaza and transforming it into a tourist destination. This summit, orchestrated by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, includes significant contributions from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, essential players for any future plans regarding the region.
Egypt’s alternative strategy involves relocating Palestinians to designated safe zones within Gaza, utilizing mobile homes and reconstructed shelters, while local infrastructure is rebuilt. Under this plan, Hamas is expected to relinquish control to a temporary administration composed of political independents until a reformed Palestinian Authority can take over governance.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, a known adversary of Hamas, participated in the discussions. In contrast, Israel maintains a firm stance against reinstating the Palestinian Authority in Gaza and, backed by the United States, calls for Hamas’ disarmament. Despite a fragile ceasefire established in January, tensions remain high, and there are fears of renewed conflict.
President Trump’s proposal last month drew widespread condemnation across Gaza’s populace and Arab nations, suggesting the resettlement of Gaza’s 2 million inhabitants to other countries. Trump further suggested U.S. ownership of Gaza would facilitate its transformation into a Mediterranean-style ‘Riviera,’ a notion welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu but dismissed by Palestinian and human rights advocates, citing potential breaches of international law.
The Arab leaders’ summit in Egypt marks a crucial development in addressing the Gaza Strip’s future in light of Trump’s controversial proposals. Egypt’s counterproposal aims to support Palestinian resettlement within Gaza while ensuring infrastructure redevelopment. However, significant challenges remain, particularly concerning Hamas’ governance and potential Israeli resistance to Palestinian Authority involvement.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
