Egypt’s Post-War Gaza Plan Excludes Hamas from Governance

Egypt is proposing a governance plan for Gaza that excludes Hamas and involves a Palestinian administrative committee. The plan, discussed at an Arab summit, aims to manage Gaza temporarily and facilitate a return to the Palestinian Authority. Additionally, Egypt outlines a reconstruction effort worth $53 billion and emphasizes the need for international involvement in peacekeeping and stabilization.

An Egyptian plan for Gaza seeks to exclude Hamas from governance once the ongoing conflict concludes. The initiative is currently being deliberated by Arab leaders at an emergency summit in Cairo, where Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi proposed establishing a Palestinian administrative committee comprised of independent professionals. This committee would temporarily govern Gaza while transitioning authority back to the Palestinian Authority (PA).

President al-Sisi emphasized the importance of creating this administrative body to manage governance in Gaza during a transitional period. This would help oversee relief processes and facilitate the eventual return of the PA to power. The proposal, referenced as “Gaza 2030,” is slated to be presented to U.S. President Donald Trump soon, as indicated by sources from Jordan.

The draft outlines the formation of a non-partisan, technocratic Palestinian committee that would maintain governance for six months under the supervision of the PA, ensuring that committee members have no ties to any Palestinian factions. Additionally, Egypt and Jordan have committed to training Palestinian police forces as part of the plan to ensure stability in the region.

The proposal also addresses the reconstruction of Gaza with an estimated cost of $53 billion, allocating funds for rubble clearance and housing. Plans include the development of shopping centers, an international convention center, and an airport over the next five years, promoting tourism while also calling for international peacekeepers to assist in maintaining order.

While discussing disarmament of militant groups, the document acknowledges the complexities involved. The statement affirms that disarmament can only be achieved through a credible political process that addresses the root causes of violence. Hamas, however, has been firm regarding its armament, asserting that their weaponry is non-negotiable and rejecting any reconstruction conditions tied to disarmament.

Recent declarations from Hamas officials reveal mixed intentions regarding governance in Gaza, with some indicating a willingness to relinquish control, provided the matter remains an internal Palestinian issue, free from external influences. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for a post-war governance change that excludes both Hamas and the PA from leading Gaza, though the specifics remain unclear.

The current negotiations regarding the Gaza ceasefire face critical challenges, following accusations from Hamas against Israel for blocking humanitarian aid. As talks progress, Israeli officials caution that if Hamas does not comply with their terms, military action could resume. The discussions are taking place in a tense atmosphere, with the potential for renewed conflict looming as the deadline draws near.

In summary, Egypt’s proposed plan for post-war governance in Gaza aims to replace Hamas with a Palestinian committee, facilitating a temporary administration under the Palestinian Authority’s oversight. The plan includes significant investments for reconstruction and emphasizes the need for international support and diplomatic solutions to ensure lasting peace. However, as discussions unfold, the complexities of disarmament and governance remain critical points of contention for all parties involved.

Original Source: www.crossroadstoday.com