The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation endorsed an Egyptian-counter proposal to Trump’s Gaza takeover plan, seeking to establish Palestinian administration and reconstruction funding. Arab leaders united against displacement, with international backing being an essential next step. This response emphasizes collective Arab resistance to perceived injustices regarding Palestine.
On March 8, 2025, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) endorsed an alternative to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial plan regarding Gaza at an emergency meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This decision follows the Arab League’s earlier endorsement of the U.S. plan during a summit in Cairo. The Egyptian proposal aims to reconstruct Gaza under the administration of the Palestinian Authority, showcasing Arab unity against Trump’s plan that aimed to displace Palestinian residents.
The Egyptian Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, stated that the OIC adopted the Egyptian proposal, transforming it into an Arab-Islamic initiative. He remarked, “It is certainly a very positive thing.” This resolution came in light of Trump’s provocative suggestion to turn Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East,” which incited global backlash given its implications for the Palestinian population.
Arab leaders have also established a trust fund to support Gaza’s reconstruction, urging international contributions. Abdelatty indicated the need to garner broader support for this initiative, targeting the European Union and nations such as Japan, Russia, and China. He emphasized that they are in communication with various stakeholders, including American officials during this collaborative effort.
Despite its support among Arab states, the proposal does not specify a role for Hamas, the governing entity in Gaza, leading to its rejection by both the United States and Israel. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce expressed skepticism, stating the plan “does not meet the expectations” of Washington. In contrast, Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, characterized it as a positive first step from Egypt.
Support also came from Britain, France, Germany, and Italy, as they recognized the proposal as a “realistic path” for Gaza’s reconstruction, aiming to alleviate the dire living conditions faced by the Palestinians. Rabha Seif Allam from the Al Ahram Center noted that this coalition seeks to prevent the displacement of Palestinians and demonstrates resistance against Trump’s proposal, which has unified Arab nations in opposition to the suggested takeover of Gaza.
In summary, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s endorsement of the Egyptian counter-proposal marks a significant step in Arab efforts to reconstruct Gaza, opposing U.S. President Trump’s contentious takeover plan. The alternative seeks to ensure Palestinian governance and improve living conditions while avoiding displacement. International support for this initiative is crucial, drawing a clear line against the proposals that threaten Palestinian rights and sovereignty.
Original Source: www.jordantimes.com
