Arab leaders have unanimously endorsed a $53 billion Egyptian-led reconstruction plan for Gaza in a bid to counter President Trump’s controversial “Gaza Riviera” plan.
The new proposal, adopted at an emergency summit in Cairo on Tuesday, seeks to rebuild the war-torn enclave while ensuring Palestinians remain on their land and retain control over their future. The plan stands in sharp contrast to Trump’s widely condemned vision, which called for the forced displacement of Palestinians and the transformation of Gaza into a luxury destination for Israeli settlers.
The Egyptian plan, which has been praised by Palestinian leaders and Hamas, envisions a phased reconstruction process managed by a committee of Palestinian technocrats under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority (PA). It also includes provisions for international oversight and funding, with an emphasis on preserving the prospects of a two-state solution. However, Israel and the U.S. have already rejected the proposal, with Israeli officials insisting on the complete dismantling of Hamas and the White House dismissing the plan as unrealistic.
A plan rooted in respect for Palestinians
The Egyptian proposal is a comprehensive 112-page document that outlines detailed plans for rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure, including housing, schools, hospitals, and commercial hubs. It also includes proposals for a technology hub, an airport, and a commercial harbor. The plan is divided into three phases: an early recovery stage lasting six months, followed by two reconstruction phases spanning several years.
Crucially, the plan rejects any form of forced displacement, a cornerstone of Trump’s “Gaza Riviera” vision, which drew global condemnation for its disregard for Palestinian rights. “The Arab stance is to reject any displacement, whether it is voluntary or forced,” declared Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit at the summit.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the Egyptian plan, calling it a “realistic alternative” that respects Palestinian sovereignty and said they are ready to hold elections. Hamas, while agreeing not to field candidates for the proposed committee, has emphasized that disarming is a “red line.”
Israel’s rejection and ongoing violence
Israel’s response to the Egyptian plan has been dismissive, with officials calling it “rooted in outdated perspectives.” An Israeli official told Reuters that the country’s war aims remain unchanged: the complete destruction of Hamas’ military and governing capabilities. “If they are going to get Hamas to agree to demilitarize, it needs to be immediately. Nothing else will be acceptable,” the official said.
This stance aligns with Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has killed over 48,000 Palestinians and displaced nearly the entire population, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The assault has been widely condemned as genocidal, with accusations of war crimes mounting against Israel. Despite international outcry, Israel shows no signs of relenting, raising concerns that any reconstruction efforts could be undone by further violence.
Hope amid devastation
The Egyptian plan represents a rare glimmer of hope for Gaza’s beleaguered population, over 90% of whose homes have been destroyed or damaged, according to the UN. The proposal’s emphasis on Palestinian-led governance and international oversight offers a path forward that respects Palestinian rights and aspirations.
However, the plan’s success hinges on securing funding from wealthy Gulf states and overcoming Israeli and U.S. opposition. While Saudi Arabia and the UAE have expressed support, they have also emphasized the need for Hamas to disarm—a condition that remains a sticking point.
As the international community prepares for a major conference to raise funds for the reconstruction effort, the stakes could not be higher. For the people of Gaza, the Egyptian plan offers a chance to rebuild their lives and their homeland. For the world, it represents a test of whether justice and humanity can prevail over violence and displacement.
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