The Egyptian draft plan for Gaza aims to replace Hamas with an interim governance structure managed by Arab and Western states. Set to be revealed at an Arab League summit, the plan underscores the importance of eradicating Hamas for any international support for Gaza’s reconstruction, but it lacks clarity on key issues such as governance, funding, and the future role of the Palestinian Authority.
A newly drafted plan by Egypt for Gaza seeks to supplant Hamas with a transitional governance structure comprised of Arab, Muslim, and Western representatives. This proposition, meant to counter U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial vision, is scheduled for presentation at an upcoming Arab League summit. The Egyptian blueprint does not clarify whether its execution would precede or follow any definitive peace agreement aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict following the attacks on October 7, 2023.
Trump’s approach has drawn criticism for its notion of displacing Gazans, diverging from the long-standing U.S. support for a two-state resolution, which has resonated anger among Palestinians and various Arab nations. The lingering uncertainty regarding Gaza’s governance post-conflict remains a pivotal issue in discussions about the enclave’s future, with Hamas currently opposing any externally imposed terms by foreign authorities.
The Egyptian framework proposes a Governance Assistance Mission to act during an unspecified interim period, managing humanitarian efforts and initiating the reconstruction of Gaza, which has suffered immense devastation from the ongoing war. The draft explicitly indicates that substantial international financial support for reconstruction remains contingent upon the marginalization of Hamas as the prevailing armed political force in the region.
Collaborative diplomatic moves have emerged among Egypt, Jordan, and Gulf states, aimed at countering Trump’s initiative. Despite various proposals discussed, Egypt’s plan is perceived as the most prominent contender. However, it remains unclear if Arab leaders will express support for this initiative, which fails to identify the personnel responsible for the governance mission.
The framework categorically disavows the U.S. vision for the mass relocation of Gazan Palestinians, which Arab governments, like Egypt and Jordan, consider a critical threat to regional security. During inquiries about Egypt’s proposal, White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes affirmed that Trump endorses a definitive change in Gaza’s governance, distancing himself from supportive measures for Hamas.
Hamas officials have refuted awareness of the Egyptian proposal, with spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri emphasizing that the future of Gaza should solely be determined by its residents. The drafted plan omits reference to potential elections and does not address the ramifications should Hamas refuse to dissociate from its governance role.
Envisioned within this proposal is an International Stabilization Force composed predominantly of personnel from Arab nations. This force would assume the security responsibilities previously held by Hamas, with an aim to establish a new local police authority, governed under the oversight of a steering board comprising various international stakeholders.
The plan notably lacks a defined strategic role for the Palestinian Authority, which has minimal endorsement among Gaza’s population. Communications with a Palestinian official indicated alignment with Egypt on a committee of Palestinian specialists designed to assist governance in Gaza for a transitional period, without allegiance to external non-Palestinian entities.
Since taking power in 2007, Hamas has suppressed any opposition in Gaza, leveraging extensive military resources and support from Iran. The reconstruction of Gaza is anticipated to exceed $53 billion, yet the proposal does not specify financial commitments. Gulf and Arab nations are projected to be essential contributors to initial reconstruction efforts.
The draft seeks to establish a fund for the interim governing body through contributions, anticipating ongoing donor conferences to finance extensive development plans for Gaza. However, it lacks concrete financial commitments from prospective donors. Countries such as the UAE view Hamas as a fundamental threat and are expected to withhold support until Hamas has been sidelined effectively.
Egypt’s plan aims to transition Gaza’s governance away from Hamas through a temporary governance structure backed by Arab and Western nations while addressing humanitarian needs and reconstruction efforts. Central issues remain unresolved, including the funding for reconstruction and the plan’s support among key Arab states. The future of Gaza’s political landscape hinges on international cooperation and the willingness of Hamas to relinquish control, highlighting the complexities involved in forming a sustainable governance model.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
