Arab leaders have endorsed Egypt’s $53 billion plan to rebuild Gaza, allowing Palestinians to stay in their territory, rejecting Trump’s proposal to depopulate the area. The initiative has received support from Hamas but met with criticism from Israel and the Trump administration. The Egyptian plan aims for reconstruction by 2030, emphasizing stability and peace, amidst a backdrop of ongoing conflict and humanitarian challenges in the region.

Arab leaders convened in Cairo and expressed their support for Egypt’s proposed $53 billion plan to rebuild the Gaza Strip, rejecting U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial plan, which suggested depopulating the territory and transforming it into a resort destination. The reconstruction initiative allows the approximately 2 million Palestinians in Gaza to remain on their land, a point emphasized by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, who praised the unity among Arab nations in backing the plan.

In response to the summit’s conclusions, Hamas welcomed the endorsement, while Israel and the Trump administration dismissed it. White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes characterized Egypt’s proposal as impractical, emphasizing that Gaza is uninhabitable due to debris and unexploded ordnance. Meanwhile, Israel’s foreign ministry criticized the plan for not addressing the realities of the situation and reiterated its support for relocating Gaza’s population.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, denounced Israel’s responses as unacceptable and emphasized the necessity of establishing an independent Palestinian state for regional peace. He underscored the importance of adhering to international law and rejected any single state’s attempt to impose its will. Conversely, Hamas perceived the summit as a pivotal moment for Arab solidarity with the Palestinian cause, rejecting notions of forced displacement.

The reconstruction plan aims for a complete rebuilding of Gaza by 2030 without displacing its population. It focuses on clearing rubble and addressing unexploded ordnance, paving the way for a sustainable, green urban environment. The Arab League expressed its support for deploying an international peacekeeping force in Gaza as part of establishing peace and security, while Egypt intends to host an international conference for reconstruction efforts.

Significantly, the plan outlines developing infrastructure, including a new airport and ports, while providing temporary housing solutions for displaced residents. The restoration efforts would ensue alongside a gradual return of governance to a reformed Palestinian Authority, which has been historically sidelined by Israeli demands. Overall, the Egyptian initiative seeks to reshape Gaza’s future while rejecting the notion of population transfer proposed by Trump.

The ongoing conflict, intensified by Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, resulted in devastating casualties and humanitarian crises for both Palestinians and Israelis. With more than 48,000 reported Palestinian deaths and extensive destruction of infrastructure, the need for a comprehensive and just resolution remains pressing. The international community is keenly observing these developments, hoping for a peaceful solution to the enduring conflict and stability in the region.

In conclusion, Arab leaders have solidified their support for Egypt’s plan to rebuild Gaza, advocating for Palestinian retention of their land as opposed to Trump’s depopulation proposal. The initiative envisions comprehensive reconstruction without forced displacement, drawing significant criticism from Israel and the United States. Amidst escalating tensions and humanitarian crises, this plan aims for a sustainable future for Gaza and highlights the necessity for international cooperation in resolving the Palestinian issue.

Original Source: www.newsday.com

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