Egypt’s Gaza Reconstruction Plan Aims for Palestinian Leadership…

Egypt’s Gaza reconstruction plan aims to replace Hamas with interim governance, emphasizing Palestinian-led recovery. The proposal includes international oversight and calls for extensive funding, though no specific amounts are pledged. Reactions from Hamas have been notably against the plan, while Israeli announcements of resumed military action signal ongoing tensions in the region.

Egypt has developed a strategy to replace Hamas with an interim governance structure in Gaza, focusing on a Palestinian-led reconstruction initiative, as reported by Reuters. This plan challenges U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach, which suggests displacing Palestinian residents, and is set to be introduced at an upcoming Arab League summit.

The proposal outlines a Governance Assistance Mission to oversee humanitarian aid efforts and reconstruction activities, contingent upon Hamas relinquishing control. Furthermore, an International Stabilization Force, composed of Arab nations, is proposed to maintain security until a local police force can be established, though the draft remains somewhat ambiguous regarding its finalization.

While Gaza’s reconstruction is projected to cost over $53 billion, the plan lacks specific funding commitments, anticipating contributions from Gulf and Arab nations without detailing monetary pledges. Notably, the outline encourages Palestinian experts to partake in recovery efforts, although it does not provide the Palestinian Authority with a pivotal role.

The response from Hamas has been one of strong opposition. Senior official Sami Abu Zuhri asserted, “The day after in Gaza must only be decided by the Palestinians. Hamas rejects any attempt to impose projects or any form of non-Palestinian administration, or the presence of any foreign forces on the land of the Gaza Strip.”

The White House expressed alignment with Trump’s perspective that Hamas is unfit for governance in Gaza, open to suggestions from Arab allies. A Palestinian representative emphasized the necessity for Palestinian leadership in Gaza, supported by coordination from expert committees. However, the plan does not address the disarmament of Hamas or the organization of future elections.

Israeli media has reported that Israel intends to renew military actions in Gaza within ten days unless Hamas proceeds with releasing detainees, indicating a rigid timeline to advance negotiations. Additionally, the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation noted that any potential resumption of hostilities may be delayed due to a change in military leadership.

Meanwhile, the Yemeni movement, Ansarallah, announced readiness to respond to violations of the ceasefire by Israel, viewing the ongoing situation as a serious escalation. They reaffirmed their commitment to support the Palestinian struggle and urged the Arab Summit to condemn Israeli actions, calling for effective measures to protect civilians and alleviate the blockade on Gaza.

Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza seeks to establish Palestinian governance while sidelining Hamas, emphasizing the importance of international support and oversight in recovery efforts. The initiative has been met with resistance from Hamas and reflects broader regional tensions, with Israel poised to escalate military actions should negotiations not progress. The situation underscores the complexities surrounding governance, humanitarian aid, and the prospects for peace and stability in Gaza.

Original Source: www.palestinechronicle.com