Arab leaders gathered in Cairo to discuss Egypt’s alternative plan for Gaza, which aims to establish interim governance free from Hamas, in opposition to Trump’s proposal. The plan emphasizes humanitarian aid, reconstruction, and collaboration among various states while rejecting mass displacement of Palestinians. A significant financial commitment from Gulf Arab nations will be crucial for its success.
Leaders from Arab nations convened in Cairo on Tuesday, where Egypt presented a plan for Gaza aimed at circumventing Hamas and establishing interim governance bodies inclusive of Arab, Muslim, and Western nations. This initiative starkly opposes U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed vision for the region, described as a ‘Middle East Riviera.’ The foremost issue remains who will govern Gaza, given the tumult caused by the prolonged war with Hamas.
Egypt, Jordan, and Gulf Arab states have engaged in discussions over alternatives to Trump’s vision, which advocates for a significant exodus of Palestinians from Gaza. They perceive this as a potential destabilizing factor for the entire region. According to diplomatic sources, Egypt’s proposal is leading the discussions, envisioning the temporary establishment of a Governance Assistance Mission to replace the current Hamas governance, focusing on humanitarian aid and reconstruction.
Israel is reportedly amenable to an Arab-led administration in Gaza, provided it does not involve Hamas. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri expressed the group’s firm rejection of imposed solutions or foreign intervention in the governance of Gaza, emphasizing their desire for self-governance free from external control. He stated, “We are keen for the success of the summit, and we hope that there will be a call to reject the displacement and to protect the right of our people in resisting the occupation.”
The Egyptian initiative expressly declines the U.S. plan for mass Palestinian displacement, viewing it as a security risk. Although the Egyptian proposal does not specify funding sources for the projected $53 billion needed for reconstruction, it suggests initial funding of at least $20 billion must come from Gulf and Arab states. The UAE, wary of Hamas, advocates for the immediate disarmament of the group, while other countries prefer a more gradual method.
Hamas’ actions have intensified conflict, particularly the attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties. The group has consistently suppressed dissent within Gaza since assuming control, bolstered by external support and an extensive security framework. Egypt’s vision includes a collaborative effort among states to establish a fund supporting Gaza’s interim governance and to organize donor conferences for long-term recovery plans.
In summary, the Arab summit in Cairo has placed Egypt’s alternative plan for Gaza at the forefront, aiming for governance that excludes Hamas and involves various international actors. The initiative aims to counter U.S. proposals perceived as harmful to regional stability while addressing the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Ultimately, a successful future for Gaza hinges on the cooperation of Gulf states and a carefully structured international response to its governance and reconstruction needs.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
