The European Union supports the Arab-backed Egyptian plan for Gaza’s rebuilding, asserting the importance of a solid political framework that involves both Israeli and Palestinian perspectives. The EU aims to preclude Hamas’s influence, ensure the Palestinian Authority’s restoration of governance in Gaza, and facilitate significant reconstruction efforts, demonstrating a commitment to fostering peace and security in the region.
On 12 March 2025, the European Union reaffirmed its support for the Arab-backed Egyptian plan to rebuild Gaza, as articulated by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. Kallas endorsed the Arab Recovery and Reconstruction plan presented by Egypt, commenting, “It is a serious plan for discussions on the future of Gaza…” During an annual UN Security Council session, she highlighted the importance of discussions with Arab partners regarding this initiative.
The EU expressed its commitment to establishing a future Palestinian state that includes Gaza, emphasizing cooperation with the international community for reconstruction efforts. In a crucial statement, the EU noted that effective recovery must be founded on a robust political and security framework favorable to both Israelis and Palestinians.
In addition, the EU underscored its resolve to prevent Hamas from influencing Gaza’s future, ensuring that it does not pose a threat to Israel. The EU also committed to ongoing political and financial backing for the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its reform programs, creating a pathway for the PA to regain control over Gaza.
At a meeting of Arab leaders in Cairo on 4 March, the proposed $53 billion Egyptian plan was adopted with a focus on retaining Gaza residents on their land across a five-year reconstruction effort. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced that the PA would take back governance in Gaza as part of this plan. Furthermore, Arab leaders endorsed this Egyptian initiative as an alternative to a previous proposal by US President Donald Trump, which aimed to develop Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
The European Union’s endorsement of the Arab-backed Egyptian reconstruction plan for Gaza reflects a significant move towards establishing a political framework conducive to peace. The commitment to exclude Hamas from future governance in Gaza and the renewed support for the Palestinian Authority are pivotal for a stable future. Furthermore, this initiative presents an alternative to previous proposals, indicating a collective Arab priority to support Palestinian interests while ensuring the socio-political needs of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
