Egypt has proposed a plan to replace Hamas in Gaza with interim governing bodies managed by a coalition of Arab, Muslim, and Western states. The plan focuses on humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts, emphasizing international oversight and rejecting external governance interference by Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. Hamas, however, has rejected the proposal, asserting that Gaza’s future must be determined by its own people.
An Egyptian proposal for governance in Gaza seeks to replace the Hamas group with interim governing bodies managed by a coalition of Arab, Muslim, and Western states. This draft plan is set to be presented at an upcoming Arab League summit in Cairo and emphasizes the need for humanitarian aid and reconstruction, contingent upon Hamas stepping back from its role in local governance.
The plan foresees the establishment of an International Governance Assistance Mission that would facilitate reconstruction efforts. It also mentions the formation of an International Stabilization Force led by Arab nations, funded by donor conferences, and stresses that the Palestinian Authority will not play a central role in governance. A steering board consisting of Arab countries, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the United States, and the European Union is proposed to oversee the mission’s implementation.
Notably, the Egyptian strategy opposes President Trump’s vision for resettling Gaza’s residents into a reconstructed economic hub. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended Trump’s plan, describing it as “visionary and innovative,” while expressing gratitude for American support during recent conflicts in Gaza.
In response to inquiries about the Egyptian plan, Brian Hughes, spokesman for the White House National Security Council, affirmed Trump’s commitment to his post-war vision for Gaza, but indicated openness to input from Arab partners. Hughes highlighted that Trump’s proposals have fostered regional dialogue and have forestalled additional crises.
The United Nations estimates that Gaza’s reconstruction will exceed $53 billion, although the Egyptian proposal does not detail funding mechanisms. Initial financial contributions of at least $20 billion from Gulf and Arab states are anticipated, though the plan does not contain any formal commitments.
A senior Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri, refuted knowledge of the Egyptian proposal and expressed rejection of any external intervention in Gaza’s affairs. He emphasized, “The future of Gaza must be determined solely by the Palestinians,” opposing any imposition of foreign governance or forces in the region.
The Egyptian governance plan for Gaza aims to replace Hamas with interim authorities, focusing on humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts. By proposing an International Stabilization Force and steering board, Egypt seeks to facilitate recovery while excluding Hamas and the Palestinian Authority from governance roles. However, the plan has faced skepticism from Hamas, which insists on Palestinian autonomy in determining Gaza’s future.
Original Source: www.clevelandjewishnews.com
