Arab leaders have endorsed a $53 billion reconstruction initiative for Gaza, positioning it as an alternative to former US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to relocate Palestinians and take control of the territory.

Following an emergency summit in Cairo, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit declared, “The Egypt plan is now an Arab plan,” reaffirming that the Arab world rejects any form of Palestinian displacement.

Egypt developed a comprehensive 91-page blueprint featuring urban development designs to counter a US-backed concept dubbed the "Middle East Riviera." Unlike Trump's vision, which emphasized real estate projects, the Arab initiative prioritizes Palestinian political rights and long-term governance.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi stressed that reconstruction efforts must run parallel with progress toward a two-state solution, widely seen as the only viable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly opposed this approach.

The plan suggests that Gaza be temporarily administered by a "Gaza Management Committee" under the Palestinian government, composed of experienced technocrats. It avoids detailing Hamas's role but vaguely refers to militant groups as an “obstacle” that could be resolved by addressing the root causes of conflict. While some Arab states advocate for Hamas’s complete dismantling, others argue that such decisions should be left to Palestinians.

Security concerns would be addressed through a UN-backed international peacekeeping force, and an international conference is scheduled next month to raise funds for the project. Wealthy Gulf nations have expressed willingness to contribute but remain cautious, fearing renewed conflict could destroy their investments.

The reconstruction plan is divided into three phases, beginning with a six-month "early recovery stage" to clear debris and unexploded ordnance. The later phases, spanning several years, aim to rebuild homes, schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure.

Trump, who has described Gaza as a “demolition site,” continues to advocate for his plan, dismissing opposition. However, Arab nations now aim to prove that their vision is the only path forward.

Source: BBC

BDST: 0857 HRS, MAR 05, 2025
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