Arab Leaders Convene on Counter to Gaza Plan, Ceasefire Doubtful

A significant assembly of Arab leaders took place in Cairo, with the primary agenda focusing on crafting a response to a contentious proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump concerning the Gaza Strip. President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt convened the meeting, which saw the participation of notable figures such as the emir of Qatar, a vice president from the United Arab Emirates, and the Saudi Arabian foreign minister. This coalition’s support is deemed essential for any future endeavors post-conflict. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres was also in attendance at this crucial gathering.
The situation in the region remains tenuous as Israel has received an alternative ceasefire and hostage release proposal from the United States. Key to this proposal is the release of hostages by Hamas, who were captured during an attack on Israel in October 2023. Concurrently, Israel, aiming to pressure Hamas into accepting terms, has restricted essential supplies from entering Gaza, sparking fears of renewed hostilities.
Critics globally, particularly human rights advocates, condemned the restriction of aid, citing violations of Israel’s international obligations as an occupying force. The new proposal suggests that Hamas should release half of its hostages to extend the ceasefire and negotiate a long-term agreement. However, Israel remains silent about reciprocating through the release of Palestinian prisoners.
In response, Egypt revealed a comprehensive plan to reconstruct Gaza by 2030, with an extensive $53 billion strategy aimed at avoiding the removal of its residents. Foreseen activities include the clearance of unexploded ordnance and rubble from prior conflicts. Plans include temporary housing for affected populations and using recycled rubble for creating new coastal lands.
Long-term goals highlight sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure development in Gaza, focusing on renewable energy integration, agricultural revitalization, and establishing industrial and recreational zones. The introduction of new maritime and airport facilities is proposed, envisaging Gaza’s economic revival.
The transition of power from Hamas to an interim, politically independent administration until the Palestinian Authority regains control is central to the Egyptian plan. President Mahmoud Abbas, leader of the Palestinian Authority, participated in the summit but faces opposition as both Israel and the United States seek the disarmament of Hamas. Despite internal conflict, Hamas shows some willingness towards power transition but refuses to lay down arms until a sovereign Palestinian state is achieved.
Egyptian President el-Sissi asserted the necessity of acknowledging Palestinian interests in redevelopment efforts, promoting the continuity of a peaceful resolution parallel to reconstruction. “There will be no true peace without the establishment of a Palestinian state,” he declared, advocating for a diplomatic approach to resolve this lengthy impasse.
The discussions in Cairo emphasized finding a “permanent and just solution,” excluding initial suggestions for deploying international peacekeeping forces in disputed territories after subsequent revisions. Israel maintains its security dominance over regions occupied since 1967 and continues its resistance to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Trump’s earlier proposal to relocate Gaza’s populace was met with uniform rejection across Palestinian and broader Arab constituencies, despite some backing from Israeli quarters. His intention to convert the area into a resort in the Middle East was considered legally contentious by rights experts.
Besides planning for reconstruction, humanitarian efforts continue, with Jordan stepping forward to treat injured children from Gaza. These injured young individuals began receiving medical treatment in Jordanian care facilities as part of the kingdom’s relief initiatives.
The hostilities ignited by Hamas’ October 7 incursion into Israel led to an escalation with significant human and infrastructural losses. On-going exchanges, though tempered by intermittent truce agreements, have left deep medical, demographic, and structural scars across Gaza. The conflict persists despite fluctuating ceasefire arrangements, highlighting the complex geopolitical and humanitarian challenges facing the region.