'Seek alternate solutions': How Arab states responded to Trump's Gaza proposal

Gaza ceasefire

Arab nations are developing their own Gaza reconstruction plans, rejecting Trump’s proposal to relocate its residents, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Arab nations are mobilizing to develop their own plans for Gaza's future, countering US President Donald Trump's proposal to relocate its residents and redevelop the area, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Egypt's initiative for Gaza reconstruction

Egypt is leading efforts to garner support for an Arab-led initiative to rebuild the Gaza Strip. The plan involves keeping Palestinians in place, forming a committee of technocrats to administer the enclave, and deploying security forces trained by Arab nations. The reconstruction is envisioned to occur over five years in stages, focusing initially on restoring essential services and providing shelter. Funding is being sought from public and private sources across the region, with a donor conference planned to secure commitments.

Challenges and considerations

Key challenges include determining how to remove Hamas from authority or prevent it from undermining the plan, identifying participants for the new security forces, and securing sufficient funding for the long-term reconstruction project. Gulf countries, potential major donors, seek assurances that their investments will not be wasted due to renewed conflict and that funds will not be misused by Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

Shifting focus from Palestinian statehood

Egypt aims to separate the issue of Palestinian statehood from the immediate need to rebuild Gaza, marking a significant shift from the traditional Arab stance that linked reconstruction aid to progress toward a Palestinian homeland. This pragmatic approach reflects a recognition of the urgency to address Gaza's humanitarian crisis while deferring the more complex political questions.

Regional reactions and diplomatic efforts

President Trump's proposal to relocate Gaza's residents and redevelop the area has been met with widespread rejection from Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, citing moral objections, security risks, and potential instability. In response, Arab countries are stepping up their diplomatic efforts to present alternative solutions, with Egypt hosting a summit of Arab leaders on February 27 to discuss developments in the Palestinian issue.