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Arab Leaders Convene in Cairo to Address Gaza Rebuilding Plan

Arab leaders met in Cairo to discuss Egypt’s plan for Gaza amid a ceasefire’s expiration. The plan aims to rebuild the region and avoid displacement of its population, countering a U.S. proposal for control over Gaza. Key issues include governance and financing from Gulf states, with Hamas and Israel stuck in negotiations over a ceasefire extension.

Arab leaders convened in Cairo at the invitation of Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi to discuss a plan for Gaza that counters the U.S. proposal to assume control over the territory. The plan aims to rebuild Gaza after prolonged warfare and address the uncertainties following the expiration of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. This initiative’s main goal is to promote recovery and reconstruction in the region while avoiding the displacement of its population.

The Egyptian proposal focuses on an initial phase of recovery that includes de-mining efforts and temporary housing solutions. This would be succeeded by a comprehensive reconstruction phase targeting the rebuilding of crucial infrastructure. There are significant underlying questions regarding governance of Gaza and the financial contributions required from various nations to support the ambitious redevelopment plan.

Experts like Luciano Zaccara emphasize that while there seems to be a consensus among Arab states against Hamas’s future governance of Gaza, they do not want to see Hamas completely eliminated. In contrast, Hamas has rejected any externally imposed solutions, advocating instead for an active Arab role to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza while opposing any Israeli plans for Palestinian displacement.

President Sisi noted Egypt’s collaboration with Palestinians to establish an administrative committee of independent technocrats to govern Gaza temporarily. This committee would manage humanitarian aid and prepare for the potential return of the Palestinian Authority (PA), led by President Mahmoud Abbas, who has expressed support for the Egyptian proposal.

Critical to the success of any reconstruction efforts will be the involvement of wealthy Gulf states like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, which are vital for funding. As the summit unfolds, it comes in the wake of a ceasefire expiry between Israel and Hamas, leading to a breakdown in negotiations regarding the conditions for an extension and release of captives. The stalemate highlights the urgency of dialogue and the need for concrete proposals, especially in light of Israel’s recent suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

In summary, Arab leaders are responding to urgent humanitarian and governance issues in Gaza during a pivotal meeting hosted by Egypt. The proposed plan emphasizes recovery, reconstruction, and the avoidance of displacing Gazans, while highlighting the need for strong financial backing from Gulf countries. The session is crucial as it addresses regional stability amidst escalating tensions and failed ceasefire negotiations with Israel. This underscores the complexity of restoring peace and order in Gaza.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com

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