U.S. Rejects Egypt’s Gaza Reconstruction Plan, Upholds Trump’s Controversial Vision

The U.S. has rejected Egypt’s Gaza reconstruction plan, aligning with Trump’s ethnic cleansing stance. Trump’s vision seeks to expel Palestinians and rebuild Gaza without Hamas. Meanwhile, the Egyptian plan aims for sustainable governance and reconstruction without displacing Palestinians, with significant financial backing. However, ongoing tensions with Israel complicate the ceasefire and reconstruction prospects.

The United States has formally rejected the Egyptian post-war Gaza reconstruction proposal endorsed by Arab nations during a summit in Cairo. The rejection aligns with President Donald Trump’s stance advocating for the expulsion of Palestinians from the region. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes noted on March 4 that the current proposal fails to recognize the uninhabitable conditions in Gaza, asserting that, “the residents cannot humanely live in a territory covered in debris and unexploded ordnance.”

Trump reiterated his commitment to rebuilding Gaza free from Hamas influence, expressing optimism for future talks aimed at achieving peace and prosperity in the region. The Egyptian plan, which proposes a $53 billion reconstruction fund and a six-month management committee, envisions Hamas relinquishing governance of Gaza and establishing transitional arrangements to preserve the potential for a two-state solution.

The reconstruction strategy includes several phases: the initial recovery stage requiring $3 billion over six months, followed by a two-year reconstruction phase costing $20 billion, and a second phase lasting two and a half years with a budget of $30 billion. Importantly, the Egyptian plan explicitly rejects the displacement of Palestinians, garnering praise from Hamas.

In February, Trump disclosed plans to take control of Gaza, suggesting that the initiative would create a safer environment for Palestinians while development teams facilitate the reconstruction efforts. Furthermore, he described his vision for Gaza as transforming it into a “Middle East Rivera.” However, Trump later clarified that he does not intend to impose the plan but will instead recommend it, signaling a shift in approach. During a recent congressional address, he emphasized an effort to reunite hostages from Gaza without commenting further on the ceasefire or the reconstruction initiative. Currently, Israel is reported to be hindering the ceasefire process while preparing for possible military actions against Gaza.

In summary, the United States has rejected the Egyptian proposal for Gaza’s reconstruction, reaffirming President Trump’s controversial vision for the region. The Egyptian plan, which aims to facilitate governance transition and safeguard Palestinian presence, contrasts sharply with U.S. objectives. While Trump envisions a reconstructed Gaza free from Hamas, the plan’s viability remains uncertain amidst ongoing tensions and Israel’s reluctance to progress towards a ceasefire. The complexities surrounding governance and humanitarian needs will play a crucial role in future discussions.

Original Source: thecradle.co