Egypt has gained backing from Arab leaders for its postwar Gaza reconstruction plan, which allows the existing Palestinian population to remain. This contrasts with Trump’s plan aimed at population resettlement. The initiative also proposes significant infrastructure developments and a transition of governance to ensure stability for Palestinians.
Arab leaders have expressed their support for Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza, which aims to allow the area’s two million Palestinians to remain, unlike U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal seeking to depopulate the territory. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi announced the endorsement, which signifies a strong rejection of Trump’s vision. This support was demonstrated at a summit held in Cairo, attended by key leaders from Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres.
At the summit, President el-Sissi emphasized that the plan aims to secure the rights of Palestinians and facilitate their rebuilding efforts. Meanwhile, Israel has proposed an alternative plan focused on a ceasefire and the release of Hamas hostages following the violent conflict that began with Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This approach has met significant resistance due to Israel’s restriction of essential supplies to Gaza, which has drawn criticism from human rights organizations.
Egypt’s reconstruction initiative is estimated at $53 billion and aims to rebuild Gaza by 2030 while retaining the existing population. Initial efforts will include removing unexploded ordnance and clearing vast amounts of rubble from the extensive bombardments. Furthermore, a conference to garner international support for Gaza’s recovery will be organized by Egypt in conjunction with the United Nations.
The comprehensive plan includes constructing temporary housing units for displaced residents and reusing rubble for development along Gaza’s coast. Additionally, future developments are set to feature eco-friendly infrastructure, improved agricultural lands, and the establishment of transportation hubs including an airport and ports. Previous initiatives under the Oslo accords have stagnated, highlighting the need for renewed focus.
The proposal also anticipates a transition of governance in Gaza, with Hamas transferring authority to an interim administration until the Palestinian Authority is reformed. Despite Hamas’ willingness to share power with other Palestinian factions, Israel and the United States challenge any role for the Palestinian Authority unless Hamas disarms. Acknowledging the complexity of peace efforts, el-Sissi called for a significant diplomatic renewal, emphasizing the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state for lasting peace.
The article discusses Egypt’s plan to rebuild Gaza with the support of several Arab nations, contrasting it with Trump’s controversial depopulation proposal. El-Sissi’s plan prioritizes maintaining the population and facilitating reconstruction, while also addressing the necessary political changes in governance. The contrasting approaches illustrate the complexities involved in achieving peace and stability in the region, emphasizing the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the need for international cooperation.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
