Arab Leaders Endorse Egypt’s Reconstruction Plan for Gaza, Reject Trump Proposal
Arab leaders at a summit in Cairo endorsed Egypt’s $53 billion plan for reconstructing Gaza, aimed at preventing the displacement of its Palestinian population. This decision counters President Trump’s proposal to repopulate Gaza differently. Egyptians and Hamas leaders welcomed the initiative while Israel and U.S. officials expressed dissent over Hamas’s involvement and the broader implications for peace. Amid continuing hostilities, urgent humanitarian needs persist in Gaza.
At an emergency summit in Cairo, Arab leaders unanimously endorsed Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza, presented as an approximately $53 billion alternative to President Trump’s proposal which aims to depopulate the region. This endorsement is seen as a rejection of Trump’s vision, which aims to transform Gaza into a resort destination. The leaders emphasized the importance of supporting the Palestinian population without displacement as a fundamental principle of the reconstruction efforts.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi expressed gratitude for the consensus among Arab nations, noting the plan’s focus on enabling Palestinians to remain in their territory. He indicated eagerness to collaborate with Trump and the international community to achieve a comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue, aiming to ensure security and stability in the region.
The White House acknowledged the contributions of Arab nations but reiterated that Hamas cannot retain power in Gaza. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes affirmed President Trump’s commitment to his vision for Gaza, while cautioning against insufficiently addressing the realities on the ground, particularly concerning Hamas’s role.
Israel rejected the reconstruction plan, describing it as disconnected from current realities and failing to address the aftermath of Hamas’s recent attacks. Israeli officials reiterated their support for Trump’s plan, which includes the relocation of Gaza’s population, branding it as an opportunity for Gazans to make free choices about their futures.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty characterized Israel’s stance as unreasonable and extremist, arguing that a peaceful settlement cannot be achieved without establishing an independent Palestinian state in accordance with international laws. He emphasized the necessity of adhering to United Nations resolutions as pivotal for enduring peace.
In a show of solidarity, Hamas welcomed the outcomes of the summit, viewing it as a significant alignment with the Palestinian cause. The organization expressed appreciation for the Arab leaders rejecting the displacement of Palestinians, reinforcing unity in support of their territorial integrity.
As the conflict continues, Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza, heightening humanitarian crises and affecting aid deliveries. The ongoing hostilities and Israel’s military actions have further complicated aid distribution, exacerbating the dire conditions experienced by Gazans amid reconstruction discussions. The urgency for humanitarian aid remains critical as reports document extensive destruction across Gaza following prolonged military actions.
The Arab leaders’ endorsement of Egypt’s comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza marks a significant diplomatic shift, presenting an alternative to President Trump’s controversial proposal. While the plan aims at allowing Palestinian populations to remain in their land, reactions from the U.S. and Israel indicate ongoing challenges and opposition that could complicate the implementation of any reconstruction efforts. The situation remains critical as humanitarian needs continue to grow amid the conflict. Thus, the Arab consensus positions Egypt’s initiative as a potential pathway towards establishing stability and peace in the region, contingent upon continued international cooperation and support for Palestinian rights.
Original Source: apnews.com
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