Arab leaders met in Cairo to endorse Egypt’s $53 billion plan for rebuilding Gaza while ensuring its residents remain in their homeland, rejecting Trump’s vision of relocation. Egyptian President al-Sisi emphasized Palestinian rights and the importance of a parallel peace initiative. Leaders concluded that any genuine peace must include the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, asserting the need for international support in this process.
On March 4, Arab leaders gathered in Cairo for an emergency summit to support Egypt’s reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip, aimed at ensuring the two million residents remain on their land. This support comes in direct opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposition to relocate Gazans to develop a “Middle East Riviera.” Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi stated that the plan seeks to protect Palestinian rights and facilitates the rebuilding of their homeland.
The proposed comprehensive plan entails a budget of $53 billion, divided into phases. Initially, a six-month recovery period will offer temporary housing to 1.5 million displaced individuals at seven designated sites. The first reconstruction phase is scheduled to last two years, costing $20 billion, followed by a second phase of 2.5 years, requiring $30 billion, with completion anticipated by 2030.
Al-Sisi criticized the Israeli military actions aimed at displacing Gazans, praising the “steadfastness and determination” of Palestinians to remain on their land. He emphasized that Egypt is collaborating with Palestinian groups to establish a committee of independent professionals to manage Gaza’s affairs during the transition, while also training Palestinian security personnel alongside Jordanian support.
Emphasizing the need for a parallel peace initiative, Al-Sisi requested the international community’s endorsement of the reconstruction process. He asserted that true peace necessitates the recognition of an independent Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, while assuring Israel’s security. He expressed his belief in President Trump’s potential to facilitate a fair political solution.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas lauded Egypt’s reconstruction initiative and categorically rejected any plans for the displacement of Palestinians. He urged fellow Arab leaders to support Gaza’s recovery efforts while highlighting the necessity for the Palestinian Authority to play a vital role in Gaza’s future and unify differing Palestinian factions.
King Abdullah of Jordan similarly denounced all efforts to displace Palestinians, asserting that these actions contravene international law. He reaffirmed Jordan’s commitment to the Gaza reconstruction plan and advocated for a two-state solution as the foundation for lasting peace in the region, which, he stated, is essential for preventing further conflicts.
In addressing the summit, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the need for collective global responsibility in alleviating suffering and fostering peace. He cautioned against the resumption of hostilities, emphasizing that a definitive political framework is necessary for Gaza’s recovery and long-term stability while acknowledging Israel’s security concerns.
The Arab leaders were expected to formally endorse Egypt’s reconstruction proposal by the conclusion of their summit, highlighting a united regional stance against the relocation of Gaza’s population, in contrast to the U.S. approach.
The emergency summit in Cairo witnessed Arab leaders endorsing Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza, which aims to retain the current residents and restore their homeland. With substantial financial backing and a commitment to political peace efforts, there is a clear rejection of U.S. proposals to displace Palestinians. The collective will demonstrated by these leaders emphasizes a dedication to both reconstruction and the broader goal of establishing lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.upi.com
