The OIC has endorsed an Egyptian-led plan rejecting Trump’s controversial proposal for Gaza, seeking to reconstruct the region under Palestinian Authority governance. Arab leaders announced a trust fund for Gaza, emphasizing a collective approach while facing mixed reactions from the U.S. and immediate rejection from Israel. Syria’s membership reinstatement is seen as a significant step for its regional reintegration.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened on Friday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where it endorsed an Arab League proposal rejecting United States President Donald Trump’s plan regarding Gaza. This decision came three days after the Arab League approved a plan led by Egypt, which aims to reconstruct Gaza under the governance of the Palestinian Authority.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty announced that the OIC meeting had officially supported the Egyptian initiative, transforming it into a unified Arab-Islamic endeavor. This response follows Trump’s controversial proposal to take control of Gaza, relocate Palestinians to Egypt or Jordan, and develop the area into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
Cameroonian Foreign Minister Lejeune Mbella, Chairman of the Council of Foreign Ministers, emphasized that the meeting was triggered by recent developments in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, especially proposals advocating for the forced displacement of Palestinians. He advocated for a collaborative multi-national approach to achieve a sustainable resolution.
During a recent summit in Cairo, Arab leaders announced the establishment of a trust fund for Gaza’s reconstruction, seeking international support. Abdelatty highlighted the necessity of gaining international adoption of the plan by entities such as the European Union and countries like Japan, Russia, and China, while maintaining dialogue with the United States.
The response to the alternative proposal has been varied within the U.S. and was immediately rejected by Israel. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce indicated that the plan “does not meet the expectations” of Washington, while Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, characterized it as a commendable initial step from Egypt. Contrary to the claim of imposition, Trump asserted his intention to merely suggest his Gaza plan, noting, “I’m just going to sit back and recommend it.”
Arab nations have united in opposition to Trump’s proposal, as discussions continue in Saudi Arabia concerning alternative strategies. Additionally, the OIC reinstated Syria’s membership, reversing its suspension from 2012, which was initially imposed due to the civil war. Syria’s foreign ministry welcomed this decision, considering it a pivotal move toward the country’s reintegration into regional and international affairs as a sovereign entity.
The OIC’s endorsement of the Egyptian-led initiative represents significant opposition to Trump’s Gaza plan. This collaborative effort emphasizes the need for a multilateral solution to the Palestinian situation, while the establishment of a trust fund for Gaza’s reconstruction illustrates regional commitment. Conversely, reactions from the U.S. and Israel highlight ongoing divisions. Overall, the Arab nations’ united front reaffirms their resolve to achieve a sustainable resolution for the Palestinian conflict.
Original Source: egyptianstreets.com
