Arab leaders have endorsed a $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza, offering an alternative to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal, which suggested that the U.S. should take control of the territory and relocate its population. The plan was approved during an emergency summit in Cairo, where Arab states reaffirmed their rejection of any forced or voluntary displacement of Palestinians.
Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the Arab League, announced that “the Egypt plan is now an Arab plan.” He emphasized the collective Arab stance against displacement, in stark contrast to Trump’s vision. Egypt’s proposal, presented in a detailed 91-page document, envisions a revitalized Gaza with modern infrastructure, but its core objectives extend beyond physical reconstruction. The initiative strongly advocates for Palestinian rights and a political resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi underscored the need for a two-state solution, with a Palestinian state coexisting alongside Israel. While this approach is widely supported by Arab nations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies have consistently opposed it.
A key feature of the plan is the establishment of a temporary “Gaza management committee” under the Palestinian government, composed of independent technocrats. The blueprint does not clarify the future role of Hamas but refers to militant groups as an “obstacle” to be addressed through broader conflict resolution efforts. While some Arab states advocate for Hamas’ complete dismantling, others believe such decisions should be left to the Palestinian people. Hamas has reportedly accepted that it will not govern Gaza but remains firm in refusing to disarm.
Netanyahu, who has previously praised Trump’s plan as “visionary,” remains opposed to both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority playing any role in Gaza’s future governance. Despite these challenges, the Arab-backed reconstruction initiative signals a commitment to a long-term solution centered on Palestinian self-determination, regional stability, and international engagement.
