Contrasting Responses to Gaza Reconstruction Plan: Hamas Backs, Israel and US Reject

Hamas supports Egypt’s Arab-backed plan for Gaza reconstruction, urging necessary measures for success. In contrast, Israel and the United States have rejected the plan, voicing concerns over its reliance on the Palestinian Authority and criticizing the humanitarian situation. The final statement from the Arab Summit condemns Israeli actions and reaffirms the rights of the Palestinian people in the pursuit of peace.

On Tuesday, the Islamic Resistance Movement, known as Hamas, expressed its support for the Egyptian plan backed by Arab nations aimed at reconstructing the Gaza Strip. Hamas called for necessary measures to be implemented to ensure the plan’s success and commended Egypt’s role in organizing an international reconstruction conference.

In stark contrast, both the Israeli government and the United States rejected the reconstruction proposal. The Israeli administration reiterated its backing of President Donald Trump’s controversial plan, which proposes the relocation of Palestinians to Jordan and Egypt—a notion firmly opposed by Arab nations. Israel criticized the reliance on the Palestinian Authority and the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in the plan, claiming these entities are tied to corruption and terrorism.

Israel further criticized the conclusions of the Cairo Summit, arguing that they ignored the current realities following the events of October 7. Israeli officials urged regional leaders to abandon outdated strategies and instead focus on achieving lasting security and stability in the region.

The White House also voiced opposition to the Arab reconstruction proposal, with a spokesperson from the US National Security Council remarking, “The published Arab plan does not address the current situation; Gaza is uninhabitable, and its residents cannot live with dignity in an area filled with unexploded ordnance and rubble.” The spokesperson affirmed President Trump’s commitment to a reconstruction agenda that excludes Hamas from the process.

The final communiqué from the Arab Summit condemned Israel’s actions to halt humanitarian aid to Gaza and close crossings vital for relief efforts, asserting that these actions violate ceasefire agreements and international humanitarian law. It rejected Israel’s use of blockade and starvation as political tactics.

The statement reinforced the necessity for Israel to comply with international resolutions and condemned attempts to alter the demographics of Palestinian territories. Arab leaders emphasized their commitment to pursuing a just and comprehensive peace that acknowledges the rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to freedom, sovereignty, and the right of return for refugees, targeting security for all nations in the region, including Israel.

The article highlights the contrasting positions regarding the Gaza reconstruction plan, with Hamas expressing support for the Egyptian initiative while Israel and the United States firmly oppose it. The Israeli government criticized the plan and its reliance on certain authorities, advocating for a different approach that acknowledges recent developments. The Arab leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful resolution that respects the rights of Palestinians, emphasizing regional security and stability.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com