Arab leaders are set to meet in Cairo to discuss Egypt’s plan for Gaza, which aims to replace Hamas’s governance with an interim body. The proposal counters Trump’s vision for Gaza, prioritizing Palestinian self-governance and regional stability while highlighting the significant financial needs for reconstruction post-conflict.
Arab leaders will gather in Cairo on Tuesday to discuss Egypt’s alternative proposal for the Gaza Strip, diverging from US President Donald Trump’s vision of a “Middle East Riviera.” The primary focus remains on establishing who will govern Gaza following extensive conflict with Hamas amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Negotiations are centered on Egypt’s plan, which aims to replace the current Hamas-led administration with a Governance Assistance Mission, overseeing humanitarian aid and initial reconstruction efforts. This action would likely be accepted by Israel as long as Hamas is removed from power.
Despite Egypt’s ability to foster a new governance structure, Hamas has openly rejected any external imposition of authority or foreign military presence in Gaza. Senior official Sami Abu Zuhri affirmed the group’s commitment to Palestinian self-governance without outside intervention.
Egypt’s initiative sharply opposes Trump’s idea of forcibly relocating Palestinians and addresses concerns about regional stability that mass displacement could provoke. Although financial resources for Gaza’s reconstruction remain unaddressed, initial estimates suggest that at least $20 billion will be necessary from Gulf and Arab nations.
The UAE’s stance is clear, demanding Hamas’s immediate disarmament, while other Arab leaders prefer a more gradual approach. Since it took control in 2007, Hamas has established a formidable military and security framework, complicating efforts for governance reforms.
The Arab summit in Cairo will focus on Egypt’s alternative to US proposals regarding Gaza, emphasizing Palestinian governance without external imposition. The plan seeks to pave the way for humanitarian support and reconstruction, premised on regional cooperation while firmly rejecting mass displacement. Financial commitments from Gulf states will be crucial for the success of the proposed governance model and recovery initiatives in Gaza.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
