Egypt proposes a governance plan for Gaza that excludes Hamas, focusing on an interim Palestinian committee to oversee the region’s administration post-war, with eventual governance transition to the Palestinian Authority (PA). The plan, discussed at an emergency summit in Cairo, outlines substantial reconstruction investments and international support while addressing humanitarian needs and regional stability. It challenges previous proposals that suggested relocating Gaza’s residents and emphasizes preserving the two-state solution.
A recently unveiled Gaza plan by Egypt proposes to exclude Hamas from the future governance of the region post-conflict, according to a draft obtained by CNN. This plan is under discussion among Arab leaders at an emergency summit in Cairo. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi introduced a concept for a Palestinian committee composed of independent professionals to temporarily govern Gaza, succeeding Hamas and eventually transferring authority to the Palestinian Authority (PA). Sisi emphasized that this administrative committee will oversee relief efforts and manage local issues during a transitional phase.
The proposed Palestinian committee is to be structured as a non-affiliated body that would operate under the framework of the PA for an interim period of six months. This proposal, dubbed “Gaza 2030,” aims to revitalize the region with international support and investment. Additionally, Egypt and Jordan plan to facilitate the training of Palestinian police to help secure the territory. CNN has reached out to verify the authenticity of this plan, which still requires further validation.
This initiative emerges as a counter to US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal regarding Gaza’s future, which suggested relocating residents and transforming the enclave. The new plan firmly opposes the forced displacement of Palestinians and calls for a comprehensive international effort to treat the humanitarian crises exacerbated by ongoing conflicts. It prioritizes a governance arrangement that aligns with preserving the two-state solution.
Beyond governance, Cairo’s outline seeks to enhance Gaza’s economic infrastructure, targeting $53 billion for reconstruction, encompassing removal of rubble and construction projects. It envisions large developments, including shopping malls, a convention center, and an airport within five years, together with tourism enhancements along the Mediterranean coast. The strategy also asks the UN to consider deploying peacekeepers to both Gaza and the West Bank to safeguard all communities involved.
Hamas officials have expressed firm opposition to disarming, asserting that their military capabilities are a “red line” and thus non-negotiable, especially concerning any reconstruction agreements. However, there are indications that Hamas may contemplate stepping aside from governance if it ensures Palestinian unity and avoids external interference in the process. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is yet to articulate a detailed vision for Gaza’s future, but he aligns with Trump’s perspective that neither Hamas nor the PA should govern the region.
The situation remains precarious as humanitarian aid access in Gaza is currently obstructed, further straining relationships between Hamas and Israel. As discussions on extending the ceasefire progress, there are tight timelines to achieve consensus, with the possibility of conflict resuming if terms are rejected by Hamas. The emergency summit’s outcomes will significantly impact the trajectory of Gaza’s immediate future and broader peace efforts.
In summary, Egypt’s new Gaza proposal aims to facilitate governance changes post-war, excluding Hamas while fostering cooperation towards reconstruction with the PA’s eventual return. The initiative includes substantial investments for revitalizing Gaza’s infrastructure and seeks international support to ensure lasting peace and stability. The complexities presented by Hamas’s military presence and differing regional viewpoints underscore the challenges ahead for successful implementation.
Original Source: www.crossroadstoday.com
