Arab Summit Addresses Egypt’s Governance Plan for Gaza Amidst U.S. Proposals

Arab leaders are meeting in Cairo to discuss an alternative to President Trump’s Gaza plan proposed by Egypt. This plan seeks to replace Hamas with a governance mission led by Arab and Western states. The plan strongly rejects the U.S. idea of displacing Palestinians. Financial backing from Gulf nations will be essential for the reconstruction effort, raising significant questions about the future governance of Gaza.

Arab leaders are convening in Cairo to discuss Egypt’s proposed plan for managing Gaza, which aims to exclude Hamas and establish governance through the cooperation of Arab, Muslim, and Western nations, in contrast to President Trump’s vision of a ‘Middle East Riviera.’ This proposal arises amidst ongoing negotiations regarding the leadership in Gaza, which has suffered significantly from conflict with Israel over the past 15 months.

Key uncertainties linger over who will govern Gaza, particularly as Hamas has publicly rejected external impositions regarding the governance of the area. Egypt, alongside Jordan and Gulf States, has been deliberating for nearly a month on this alternative to Trump’s plan, which is viewed as potentially destabilizing for the region.

Egypt’s proposal is regarded as the leading suggestion among Arab nations, aiming to replace Hamas with a Governance Assistance Mission responsible for humanitarian efforts and reconstruction initiatives. Sources suggest that Israel is likely to support an Arab-led governing body if it leads to the removal of Hamas from power.

Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior Hamas official, criticized any efforts to impose foreign governance models and dismissed any administration or foreign military presence in Gaza. He emphasized the importance of the summit, expressing hopes for preserving Palestinian rights and self-governance without external interference.

The Egyptian framework explicitly rejects the mass displacement of Palestinians proposed by the U.S., which Arab nations fear could lead to increased insecurity. However, the plan remains vague on financial commitments needed for reconstruction, which could exceed $53 billion according to U.N. estimates. Contributions from Gulf states are anticipated to be crucial for the plan’s viability.

Various Arab nations have differing approaches regarding Hamas disarmament, with the UAE advocating for immediate action while others favor a more gradual strategy. Since Hamas seized control of Gaza from the Palestinian Authority in 2007, it has established a formidable security apparatus backed by Iran, complicating any governance shifts.

Egypt’s proposal may involve forming a steering committee to manage a fund supporting the interim authorities and organizing donor conferences for Gaza’s long-term reconstruction and development. This plan is essential for moving forward in the complex political landscape of the Palestinian territories.

The upcoming Arab summit in Cairo aims to explore Egypt’s alternative governance plan for Gaza, which seeks to exclude Hamas and ensure stability through Arab and international cooperation. Egypt’s proposal rejects displacement plans and emphasizes a governance model focused on humanitarian needs. However, financial support from Gulf nations will be critical for its implementation. The outcome of the summit could significantly influence the future administration of Gaza and the broader regional dynamics.

Original Source: www.jpost.com