Arab leaders have backed Egypt’s $53 billion postwar plan for Gaza, allowing its 2 million residents to stay, countering Trump’s controversial relocation proposal. The plan includes immediate housing and infrastructure rebuilding while transitioning governance from Hamas to an interim administration. Ongoing discussions on Israeli and U.S. responses and humanitarian support are crucial for successful implementation.
Arab leaders have endorsed Egypt’s plan for rebuilding Gaza, which allows the current Palestinian population of approximately 2 million to remain, contrasting with President Trump’s controversial proposal to resettle them elsewhere. The endorsement, announced by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, garnered significant support during a summit in Cairo attended by notable Arab countries, including Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, as well as UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
El-Sissi emphasized that the plan respects the Palestinian people’s right to rebuild their nation and ensures their presence on their land. Meanwhile, Israel aligns with a U.S. proposal that requires Hamas to release hostages taken during the recent conflict, while imposing a blockade on Gaza, exacerbating humanitarian concerns.
Egypt’s reconstruction plan is estimated at $53 billion and aims to rebuild Gaza by 2030 without relocating its residents. The initial phase focuses on clearing rubble and unexploded ordnance, with plans for temporary housing and an international conference to garner support for reconstruction initiatives.
Future developments are expected to include sustainable urban areas, agricultural renovation, and infrastructure establishment such as airports and ports. Palestinian governance is proposed to transition from Hamas to an interim administration until a reformed Palestinian Authority can regain control, though Israel explicitly opposes any role for the Authority in Gaza.
El-Sissi called for a comprehensive peace strategy that acknowledges the desire for a Palestinian state, stressing that true peace cannot be achieved without it. Trump’s previous suggestion to resettle Palestinians in other countries has been met with widespread rejection. Humanitarian responses are ongoing, with support countries like Jordan assisting with humanitarian cases for treatment.
The ongoing conflict, ignited by Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, has had devastating effects, with significant casualties on both sides, and critical infrastructure in Gaza has been severely compromised, leading to mass displacement among the population.
In conclusion, Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza aims to rebuild the region while keeping its population intact. The initiative has garnered widespread support from Arab leaders and presents a comprehensive approach to peace and stability. However, complications arise with Israel’s stances and ongoing humanitarian concerns which complicate the situation further. The future of Gaza remains contingent on international cooperation and effective governance reforms.
Original Source: globalnews.ca