Yair Lapid proposed that Egypt manage the Gaza Strip for eight years in exchange for debt relief. He cited Egypt’s financial struggles, notably its over $155 billion external debt. The plan aims to facilitate stability in Gaza, eventually transferring governance to a reformed Palestinian Authority. Lapid anticipates Egypt’s reluctant acceptance and emphasizes the need for a coordinated international effort to prevent terrorism in the region.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has proposed that Egypt assume management and security responsibilities in the Gaza Strip for an initial period of eight years, in exchange for significant debt alleviation. Lapid suggested that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi might consider this arrangement due to Egypt’s escalating national debt and economic challenges, particularly exacerbated by declining tourism since the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Lapid articulated the severity of Egypt’s financial situation, stating, “Egypt’s external debt is more than $155 billion. Its ability to borrow money is fading away. If President El Sisi can’t subsidise pitta bread for the poor in Egypt, if he can’t pay the bills for the Egyptian military, his leadership is at risk.” He emphasized the potential for the international community to contribute to resolving Egypt’s debt, thereby facilitating its governance of Gaza.
Although Lapid presented this concept for the first time and has yet to consult Egyptian officials, he anticipates a response cycle from Cairo of initial rejection followed by eventual acceptance. His comprehensive proposal suggests that Egypt could govern Gaza for eight years, with the possibility of an extension to 15 years, ultimately transitioning control back to a reformed Palestinian Authority.
The former prime minister also highlighted that such an arrangement would involve Egypt leading a coalition or “peace force” with Gulf nations and the international community to manage and rebuild Gaza. He remarked, “Egypt will lead a peace force in partnership with the Gulf states and the international community for the management and rebuilding of Gaza,” reiterating the need for collaborative efforts to prevent terrorism in the region.
Historical context was provided by Lapid, noting that Egypt governed Gaza from 1948 to 1956 and again from 1957 for a decade. He stated, “Nobody’s asking them to annex Gaza. We are asking them to manage Gaza for 15 years. That’s a huge difference, and this is something I think they can live with, and it doesn’t contradict what they want to do in the region.” This reflects an understanding of the delicate political dynamics at play.
Yair Lapid’s proposal for Egypt to manage Gaza presents a potential solution to the region’s pressing challenges, contingent upon alleviating Egypt’s economic burdens through international support. The plan posits an arrangement that emphasizes stability and collaborative governance while honoring historical precedents. Ultimately, Egypt’s control coupled with international assistance could contribute to peace and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, addressing security concerns over Hamas’s presence.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
