A Diplomatic Framework for Post-War Gaza: Pathway to Israeli-Saudi Relations

Gidi Grinstein presents a 13-principle plan for Gaza aimed at establishing Israeli-Saudi relations while providing governance under the Palestinian Authority. The proposal seeks to resolve Gaza’s political vacuum with an international security force and strategies for reconstruction and stability. It emphasizes a transitional period for establishing a nascent state, recognizing the interconnectedness of Gaza and the West Bank.

During a recent meeting, Gidi Grinstein, founder of the Reut Group, presented a diplomatic framework for post-war Gaza designed to facilitate Israeli-Saudi relations. He detailed a plan comprising 13 principles that aim to integrate the political and economic aspirations of all stakeholders involved in Gaza’s transition. Central to the proposal is a three to five-year transition period, with Gaza divided into Areas A and B, ensuring both Palestinian governance and Israeli security.

Grinstein emphasized the “legal void” Gaza currently exists within, following Israel’s 2005 withdrawal and Hamas’s annulment of the Oslo Accords. His proposed framework would draw from the legal structures established in the West Bank, recognizing the Palestinian Authority as a “nascent state.” This parallels Israel’s own historical journey towards statehood during the late 1940s.

In discussing Saudi normalization with Israel, Grinstein explained that the Saudis seek a political horizon. His framework offers a recognized PA as a nascent state without an immediate formal declaration of statehood, balanced to maintain Israeli security while providing a political pathway for Gaza’s governance. Such a strategy could foster Arab state engagements without compromising Israeli territory.

Crucially, Grinstein suggested the deployment of an international security force, led by the UAE, expected to enter Gaza only at the invitation of the Palestinian authorities. This reformed PA would need to be acknowledged as the governing body in Area A to ensure a sustainable security solution, alongside international support from various nations to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction.

Grinstein further noted that his plan entails dismantling the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to shift away from perpetuating the refugee status quo, instead establishing a Gaza Reconstruction Authority under the reformed PA. He argued that rebuilding Gaza should focus on creating stable communities rather than temporary refugee camps. Moreover, he indicated that both Gaza and the West Bank remain intertwined under international frameworks established by the Oslo Accords.

Addressing skepticism regarding the PA’s reliability, Grinstein reiterated the lack of viable alternatives should Gaza descend into chaos or if Israel were to take direct control. He underscored that while mistakes from past agreements loom large, managing a transition through these principles could avert failure. Grinstein reflected on the vision of Yitzhak Rabin, illustrating how current geopolitical dynamics could offer Israel unprecedented opportunities for peace and stability in the region.

The article discusses a new diplomatic framework proposed by Gidi Grinstein for transforming Gaza’s political landscape in light of recent conflicts. With an emphasis on establishing Israeli-Saudi relations, the plan stipulates dividing Gaza into areas of governance while supporting the Palestinian Authority’s legitimacy as a transitional governing body. It embodies a strategic approach to resolving the legal and political challenges faced in Gaza post-Hamas, reflecting on historical contexts and modern geopolitical implications.

Grinstein’s proposal lays out a pragmatic approach towards stabilizing Gaza and fostering regional normalization with Israel. By recognizing the PA as a nascent state and facilitating an international security presence, the framework aims to ensure both security for Israel and governance for Palestinians. The success of this plan hinges on international cooperation and a commitment to constructive dialogue, which could lead to enduring peace in the region.

Original Source: www.jpost.com