As the Gaza crisis deepens, Arab leaders are set to meet in Cairo to finalize a reconstruction plan and push back against President Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians. The summit aims to present a unified Arab vision for Gaza, focusing on rebuilding the territory while rejecting forced displacement.
Arab Response to Trump’s Proposal
Trump’s plan, which suggests moving Gazans to Egypt and Jordan and transforming the strip into a tourism hub, has been widely condemned. Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, argue that such actions would eliminate hopes for a Palestinian state and destabilize the region. Though Trump recently stated he is “not forcing” his plan, concerns remain high.
Egypt’s $53 Billion Reconstruction Plan
Arab leaders will discuss an Egyptian proposal that includes:
- $53 billion to rebuild Gaza.
- A temporary governing committee of technocrats for six months.
- Rejecting Trump’s relocation plan and keeping Palestinians in Gaza.
- A pathway for the Palestinian Authority to regain control.
Egypt suggests deploying international forces to oversee security, but details remain unclear.
Read: UN Condemns Blockade by Israel
Fragile Cease-Fire and Israeli Actions
The Israel-Hamas cease-fire is on the brink of collapse. Recently, Israel blocked all aid and goods from entering Gaza, pressuring Hamas to extend the truce and exchange more prisoners. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of Palestinians have been forced from their homes in the West Bank, raising fears that Israel, backed by Trump, may attempt annexation.
Challenges in Arab Unity
While 22 Arab League nations will attend the summit, key Gulf leaders from Saudi Arabia and the UAE are absent. This raises doubts about full support for Egypt’s plan. Additionally, Arab countries have yet to agree on Gaza’s long-term governance, security management, and Hamas’s role post-war.
Hamas and Security Concerns
Hamas has signaled willingness to cede civilian control to a governing committee, provided that Gaza’s future is decided through a Palestinian national consensus. However, it refuses to disarm, a major demand from Israel and the US. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, insists “Hamas has to go.” Meanwhile, Hamas officials declare that their weapons are a “red line.”
Rebuilding Gaza: A Costly Road Ahead
The Egyptian proposal outlines a three-phase rebuilding plan:
- First six months ($3 billion): Clear debris, house 1.2 million people in prefabricated units, and rehabilitate 60,000 homes.
- Until 2027 ($20 billion): Restore utilities, rebuild permanent homes, and expand Gaza into the sea using rubble.
- By 2030 ($30 billion): Construct industrial zones, a fishing port, an airport, and a seaport.
Funding: Gulf nations and possibly Europe will finance reconstruction. Egypt plans to organize an international donor conference soon.
Uncertain Future for Gaza
Arab nations insist that Gaza and the West Bank must remain united under Palestinian sovereignty. However, Israeli leaders refuse any path toward Palestinian statehood. The coming weeks will determine whether this summit can produce a workable solution or if the region will plunge further into conflict.
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