Egypt has drafted a plan to govern Gaza post-conflict, aiming to replace Hamas with interim management and address reconstruction needs. The proposal faces skepticism from Palestinians and lacks clarity on financial and governance mechanisms. Key Arab nations, while formulating a cooperative response to U.S. policies, must navigate the complex reality of Hamas’s influence in Gaza. The bill for reconstruction could exceed $53 billion, necessitating substantial regional financial commitments.
An Egyptian plan for Gaza emerged as a counterproposal to U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision for the region, which aims to replace Hamas with interim governance by Arab, Muslim, and Western states. This draft, revealed to Reuters, is set for discussion at an upcoming Arab League summit but lacks clarity on implementation timelines or governance specifics, particularly concerning Hamas’s role. Palestinian responses to external governance proposals remain largely dismissive, citing sovereignty issues.
The Egyptian proposal includes the establishment of a Governance Assistance Mission to oversee humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza, which has suffered extensive devastation due to recent conflict. The draft emphasizes that substantial international funding for Gaza’s rehabilitation is unlikely if Hamas maintains its control and armed presence. Also notable is the absence of any plan for elections or specifics regarding governance transition.
i Nations such as Egypt and Jordan have been working together to formulate a cohesive strategy against Trump’s controversial plan, while the Arab League discusses their collective response. However, support from Arab leaders for Egypt’s initiative remains uncertain. Furthermore, the draft proposes that a steering board, composed of key nations, would oversee security and governance, yet it largely excludes the Palestinian Authority given its diminished reputation among Gaza residents.
The plan’s security elements suggest the deployment of an International Stabilization Force primarily staffed by Arab states to maintain order until a local police force is established. Its success heavily hinges on collaboration among diverse stakeholders, as well as securing funding for the anticipated reconstruction, which the UN estimates to exceed $53 billion. Prominent Gulf nations may play a crucial role in financial support but are expected to withhold aid until Hamas is effectively sidelined.
In light of the potential for extensive damage recovery and reconstruction, the proposal underscores the importance of Palestinian involvement in governance decisions. It anticipates a collaborative effort involving a committee of Palestinian experts to assist the Palestinian Authority in managing Gaza post-conflict. Though the prospective financial backing remains largely unspecified, discussions around funding mechanisms and coalition building are poised to be shaped by perceptions of Hamas’s role and regional dynamics.
In sum, Egypt’s draft proposal for Gaza seeks to replace Hamas with interim governance by Arab and foreign powers while addressing urgent humanitarian needs and reconstruction. However, it raises significant questions regarding governance, financial support, and the acceptance of external influence. The unfolding discussions at the Arab League summit will be pivotal in shaping regional responses to this evolving crisis.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
