Arab Leaders Propose $53 Billion Reconstruction Plan for Gaza
In a significant move, Arab leaders have unveiled a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza, amounting to $53 billion. This initiative aims to counter an earlier proposal from former U.S. President Donald Trump, which controversially suggested depopulating and redeveloping the Gaza Strip into a luxurious “Middle East Riviera.” Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced the plan at the conclusion of an emergency summit held in Cairo, emphasizing its importance for the region’s future.
The proposal is detailed in a 112-page document that includes meticulously crafted maps outlining the areas designated for redevelopment. Accompanying these maps are dozens of vibrant, AI-generated images showcasing envisioned housing projects, lush gardens, and community centers. The ambitious five-year plan includes the construction of essential infrastructure such as a commercial harbor, a technology hub, beachside hotels, and even an airport.
This initiative follows Trump’s recent social media activity, where he shared an AI-generated vision of a transformed Gaza on his Truth Social platform. Last month, he expressed his intent for the U.S. to “take over” Gaza and “own it,” a notion that has sparked widespread backlash and skepticism. During the summit, Sisi remarked on the potential for Trump to facilitate peace in the ongoing conflict that has long plagued the Gaza Strip.
As discussions unfold, pivotal questions regarding Gaza’s governance and the financial backing necessary for reconstruction remain unanswered. Sisi reported that Egypt has collaborated with Palestinian representatives to establish an administrative committee. This committee, composed of independent and professional Palestinian technocrats, is tasked with temporarily overseeing Gaza’s governance and managing humanitarian aid until the Palestinian Authority (PA) can resume its role.
- The committee’s primary responsibilities will include:
- Oversight of humanitarian aid distribution
- Management of daily affairs in Gaza
Another crucial issue is the fate of Hamas, the militant group that governs Gaza and has been in direct conflict with the PA. The group instigated the recent Gaza war by launching an attack on Israel on October 7, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 individuals and the taking of more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli reports. In retaliation, the Israeli military has claimed responsibility for over 48,000 Palestinian deaths in the ensuing 15 months, as reported by the Gaza health ministry.
Hamas has publicly welcomed the reconstruction plan and the establishment of the Palestinian committee, viewing it as a positive step forward. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who has led the PA since 2005, expressed his approval of Egypt’s initiative and urged Trump to endorse a plan that would not involve displacing Palestinian residents. Abbas also stated his willingness to hold presidential and parliamentary elections if the situation permits, reaffirming the PA’s status as the legitimate governing body in the Palestinian Territories.
In contrast, the Israeli foreign ministry dismissed the plan as “rooted in outdated perspectives,” criticizing its reliance on the PA while allowing Hamas to maintain its grip on power. Trump’s proposal included relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Jordan and Egypt—an idea that has been met with immediate rejection.
For the reconstruction funding to materialize, significant financial contributions from wealthy Gulf states, particularly the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, will be essential. These nations possess the financial resources necessary to support such an extensive rebuild.
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa mentioned that the reconstruction fund would aim for international financing and oversight, likely through a framework established by the World Bank. During the summit, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan highlighted the need for international guarantees to ensure that the current temporary ceasefire remains intact, reaffirming support for the PA’s role in governing Gaza.
While leaders from the UAE and Qatar refrained from making statements during the open sessions, Egypt, Jordan, and Gulf Arab states have been in discussions for nearly a month regarding alternatives to Trump’s controversial plan, which they fear could destabilize the region further. A draft final communique from the summit, seen by Reuters, explicitly rejected the mass displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.
There is a prevailing belief that Israel may be less opposed to an Arab entity assuming governance over Gaza, provided that Hamas is removed from power. However, an Israeli official asserted that the primary objective of the military campaign has been to dismantle Hamas’ military and governance capabilities. “If Hamas is to agree to demilitarization, it must happen immediately. Anything less will not be acceptable,” the official stated.
Additional reporting by Reuters
