Egypt’s Reconstruction Plan for Gaza: A Response to Trump’s Proposal

Arab leaders have endorsed Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza, rejecting Trump’s proposal for depopulation. The $53 billion initiative aims for sustainable recovery without displacing residents by 2030. It includes temporary housing and plans for essential infrastructure, while calls for disarmament of Hamas remain contentious amid ongoing violence and humanitarian crises.

On Tuesday, Arab leaders supported Egypt’s postwar reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip, aiming to preserve the 2 million Palestinians currently living there. This counterproposal stands in stark contrast to U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan, which suggested depopulating Gaza. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi announced the endorsement, highlighting the plan’s commitment to the Palestinian right to exist on their land.

The summit in Cairo was attended by key figures, including the emir of Qatar, the vice president of the UAE, and the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, all vital players for any postwar strategy. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres was also present, emphasizing international support for the Egyptian initiative.

President el-Sissi articulated the essence of the plan, stating that it ensures the Palestinian population’s right to rebuild their nation. Meanwhile, Israel has signaled that it supports an alternative U.S. proposal aimed at securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages taken by Hamas during the recent conflict. However, Israel’s blockade of essential supplies to Gaza has drawn considerable criticism from human rights organizations.

Egypt’s reconstruction plan, estimated at $53 billion, aims to rebuild Gaza by 2030 while retaining its current population. Initial phases include removing unexploded ordnance and clearing rubble from extensive military operations. There will be an international conference, hosted by Egypt in collaboration with the United Nations, to raise funds for this initiative.

The comprehensive plan proposes creating temporary housing units for residents during reconstruction, utilizing recycled rubble for land expansion, and establishing sustainable living environments. This includes plans for an airport, a fishing port, and a commercial port in Gaza, reflecting aspirations outlined in the failed Oslo peace accords.

Additionally, the plan suggests that Hamas should relinquish control to an interim administration until a reformed Palestinian Authority can take charge. President Mahmoud Abbas’s participation at the summit further illustrates the ongoing complexities of Palestinian governance in Gaza amidst calls for disarmament from both Israel and the U.S.

El-Sissi underscored the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state as a foundation for lasting peace. He stated, “There will be no true peace without the establishment of the Palestinian state.” Israel remains opposed to such statehood and plans to maintain security control over the area, complicating the peace process.

President Trump’s controversial assertion that Gaza’s Palestinians could be resettled in other nations was met with fierce opposition from the Arab world. Leaders from Egypt and Jordan have firmly rejected this notion, asserting their commitment to supporting Gaza’s residents.

The conflict escalated following Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the taking of hostages. Since the beginning of Israel’s 15-month offensive, over 48,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives, prompting widespread displacement within Gaza. This humanitarian crisis has resulted in hundreds of thousands living in dire conditions, with the essential infrastructure devastated by ongoing violence.

Egypt’s proposed plan for Gaza aims to provide a sustainable future for its residents, contrasting with the controversial U.S. proposition. Arab leaders’ support signifies a collective stance against plans that threaten Palestinian existence. While Israel’s security concerns remain palpable, the focus on reconstruction and the establishment of a Palestinian state is pivotal for achieving lasting peace in the region.

Original Source: globalnews.ca