Overview of the Arab Plan for Gaza Reconstruction and Its Challenges

The Arab plan necessitates $53 billion for Gaza’s reconstruction but has faced criticism for not addressing governance and Hamas’s future. The White House rejects the proposal, citing the current humanitarian crisis. The plan outlines three phases of rebuilding and aims for Palestinian Authority control but lacks clarity on funding and the involvement of key groups like Hamas.

The Arab plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, estimated at $53 billion, recently emerged from a UN-EU-World Bank joint report and has been endorsed by Arab states led by Egypt. The proposal contrasts with President Trump’s vision for Gaza, which some argue aims to displace Palestinians. However, the White House has rejected the Arab roadmap, stating it overlooks the current dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza and asserting that residents cannot live amidst destruction.

Despite its ambitious scope, criticism has arisen regarding the Arab plan’s failure to address key issues such as governance and the future role of Hamas. Paul Musgrave, a government associate professor at Georgetown University, remarks that the plan would need crucial consensus from both Hamas and Israel to materialize, questioning if Hamas would accept necessary political conditions and if Israel would allow for Palestinian Authority governance in Gaza.

In a recent summit in Cairo, Arab states expressed concerns about the plan’s funding and governance aspects. They urged international financial institutions to promptly support the initiative, although specifics on financial contributors remain vague. There are expectations of involvement from European nations and affluent Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The reconstruction plan itself outlines three phases, beginning with a six-month rubble removal effort estimated at $3 billion, which aims to provide temporary housing for over 1.5 million displaced individuals. The second phase will span two years and cost $20 billion, focusing on housing construction and infrastructure restoration for 1.6 million residents. The final phase, estimated at $30 billion over 30 months, will target housing further improvements for an intended population of 3 million.

Though the proposal seeks a transitional governance structure led by non-factional technocrats, the fate of Hamas remains unaddressed. Arab states advocate for elections in Palestinian territories, possible within a year if conditions allow. Hamas expressed a willingness to support elections, promoting a democratic process where Palestinians can choose their leaders and their political trajectory.

The Arab plan to rebuild Gaza represents a significant investment and a structured approach to reconstruction amidst ongoing political complexities. However, challenges regarding governance, funding, and the role of Hamas must be resolved for the proposal to gain traction. Without recognition from critical stakeholders such as Israel and Hamas, the realization of the plan may remain elusive, highlighting the intricate dynamics of Palestinian governance and international diplomacy.

Original Source: www.nbcmiami.com