The conflict in Gaza has driven many Gazans to seek refuge in Egypt, raising concerns about potential resettlement initiatives proposed by the Trump administration. These proposals are seen as a threat to Egypt’s sovereignty and could lead to instability. President Sisi is engaging in diplomatic efforts to oppose resettlement while formulating a reconstruction plan for Gaza. Egyptian public opinion is largely against hosting more Palestinian refugees, emphasizing the need for Palestinians to remain on their land.
Cairo currently sees an influx of Gazans who fled amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Though they find safety, their concerns for relatives in Gaza persist. Recent discussions between Egyptian intelligence and Hamas leaders aim to solidify the fragile ceasefire, as millions of Egyptians feel the weight of the conflict on their nation. President Trump’s controversial plan to resettle two million Palestinians in Egypt and Jordan has heightened tensions, as many Egyptians view it as a direct threat to their sovereignty.
During Friday prayers, locals expressed strong opinions against the displacement proposal, believing it would escalate conflict. Civil engineer Abdo articulated worries over shifting the conflict to Egyptian territory, emphasizing the long-standing enmity between Israel and Palestinian factions. Additionally, critics argue that such a plan undermines the Palestinian pursuit of statehood and could incite extremism in Egypt.
In response, President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts amidst what may represent a pivotal moment for Egyptian-American relations. The potential impact on Egypt’s foundational peace treaty with Israel looms large, drawing attention from both public commentators and international observers. Egyptian military aid from the US, long considered crucial, is facing scrutiny as broadcasters claim it offers little tangible benefit against US pressures.
King Abdullah II of Jordan, conversely, has adopted a conciliatory stance toward the US, promising humanitarian assistance while not agreeing to resettlement. Reports suggest that President Sisi will forego visiting Washington while the resettlement remains a topic. The economic toll of the Gaza conflict on Egypt is profound, with reported losses surpassing $8 billion in Suez Canal revenues due to interruptions caused by regional conflicts.
Amidst this, Egypt is crafting a reconstruction initiative aimed at revitalizing Gaza economically without mass displacement. Prominent business figures, such as Hisham Talaat Moustafa, propose a $20 billion plan to construct 200,000 homes in Gaza over three years. Experts see the plan as achievable and suggest innovative solutions, like utilizing rubble for reconstruction.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged Arab opposition to the Trump plan and encouraged the emergence of alternative proposals. An upcoming Arab summit called by Egypt aims to devise a comprehensive strategy for Gaza reconstruction involving regional funding. The exclusion of Hamas in the proposed reconstruction strategy reflects both Egyptian and international interests in the region.
Negotiating a satisfactory arrangement with Israel’s government remains a challenge, as previous US diplomatic efforts have encountered resistance. Egypt remains committed to the two-state solution but faces an uphill battle in reaching a resolution that satisfies all parties involved. Outside the mosque, many citizens emphasize the need for Egypt to avoid past mistakes while grappling with the implications of accepting a larger Palestinian populace.
The influx of refugees already places a strain on Egypt, prompting apprehensions that increased resettlement could lead to domestic unrest. A local shopkeeper underscored the sentiment against accommodating additional refugees, articulating a desire for Palestinians to remain in their homeland. Support for President Sisi’s administration reflects a broader consensus to confront the challenges posed by external influences and prioritize national interests.
The ongoing Gaza conflict has complicated Egypt’s internal dynamics and its foreign relations, particularly with the United States. President Trump’s resettlement proposal for Palestinians has heightened tensions both among Egyptians and between Egypt and its allies. Amid these challenges, Egypt’s leadership seeks to assert control over its diplomatic and reconstruction strategies while ensuring national stability in the face of external pressures. There remains a strong sentiment among Egyptians to uphold their sovereignty and the Palestinian quest for statehood.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
