U.S. President Trump has reportedly shifted his support to an Egyptian plan for Gaza following a meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, moving away from earlier proposals for Palestinian displacement. This meeting has led to successful negotiations for the release of captives by Hamas, and Egypt seeks to take a central role in Gaza’s post-war governance amidst significant reconstruction needs and regional security concerns.
A senior Egyptian official stated that Egypt and Jordan successfully persuaded U.S. President Donald Trump to support an Egyptian plan for Gaza instead of endorsing forced displacement of Palestinians. Following a critical meeting between Trump and King Abdullah II of Jordan, they believe Trump aligned with an approach supported by Arab states. The Egyptian official noted, “This will be an Egyptian plan adopted and supported by the Arabs.”
The official emphasized the importance of the Jordanian king’s visit, which, although it did not involve public confrontation, led to a private warning to Trump about the potential rise in Islamic extremism and the destabilization of pro-U.S. governments in the region. Reports indicate that Trump appeared receptive to these concerns.
Building on the momentum from Abdullah’s meeting, Egypt negotiated the release of six captives by Hamas, more than doubled from the obligations of the ceasefire agreement. The release was facilitated by Israel’s decision to allow construction machinery into Gaza, signaling compliance with the ceasefire.
Additionally, Israel permitted the entry of mobile homes into Gaza, which had previously been obstructed. Tensions arose when Hamas claimed Israel was violating the ceasefire by withholding aid, threatening to withhold further releases of captives.
Moreover, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is scheduled to visit Riyadh to continue discussions on governance in post-war Gaza. Trump’s previous suggestions for the U.S. to take control of Gaza sparked backlash, worrying Arab leaders about regional stability.
Uncertainties linger regarding Trump’s intentions for Gaza, whether genuine or as leverage against Arab states. Senator Lindsey Graham acknowledged a lack of desire from the U.S. to take control of Gaza, echoing sentiments shared by other legislators during their interactions with Abdullah.
Israel has expressed interest in Trump’s ideas, initiating plans for “voluntary immigration” of Palestinians while simultaneously preparing for further discussions concerning Gaza governance. Multiple Arab states and the Palestinian Authority have proposed various governance models that exclude Hamas, indicating a complex political landscape.
There is a consensus that post-war governance should not include Hamas or PA leadership. Instead, security control will remain a pivotal aspect of future plans, drawing comparisons to Lebanon’s civil war resolution, where armed groups retained influence. Egypt aims to ensure Gulf nations play a significant role in Gaza’s reconstruction efforts.
According to a recent joint report, the reconstruction of Gaza and the West Bank will require over $50 billion, with $20 billion needed immediately. This funding underscores the extensive rebuilding process necessitated by the ongoing conflict, highlighting the urgent need for international cooperation in this endeavor.
In conclusion, recent developments indicate a shift in U.S. policy towards supporting an Egyptian-led plan for Gaza, backed by Jordan. The release of Hamas captives suggests a cautious optimism regarding negotiations, although significant challenges in governance and reconstruction remain. Concerns about regional stability persist, emphasizing the importance of careful international engagement in post-war Gaza management. The collaboration between Egypt and Jordan may thus shape future peace efforts in this volatile region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
