Arab leaders convening in Egypt are poised to endorse a counterproposal to former President Donald Trump’s controversial suggestion that the Gaza Strip be depopulated in favor of transforming the area into a beach destination. The summit, set for Tuesday, is being hosted by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi and is expected to feature key leaders from regional powerhouses, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, whose backing is deemed essential for any post-conflict strategy.
In response to Trump's proposal, Egypt has crafted an alternative plan where Palestinians would be relocated to safer areas within Gaza, equipped with mobile homes and temporary shelters, enabling the reconstruction of its towns and cities. The plan includes an arrangement for Hamas to relinquish power to an interim administration comprised of political independents until the Palestinian Authority can reinstate control over the region. Notably, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who opposes Hamas, is present at the summit.
Israel has explicitly denied any role for the Palestinian Authority in Gaza and, together with the United States, has demanded the disarmament of Hamas. The tenuous ceasefire that was established in January is currently in jeopardy, with the possibility of renewed conflict looming in the background.
Trump’s unexpected remarks last month suggested resettling Gaza’s approximately 2 million residents in other countries. He claimed that the United States would take over the war-damaged territory and develop it into a Middle Eastern "Riviera." This proposal received significant support from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but was met with widespread condemnation from Palestinians, Arab states, and human rights advocates, who argued that it would likely contravene international law.
The ongoing geopolitical dynamics surrounding Gaza remain highly contentious, with various stakeholders asserting conflicting claims and proposals aimed at resolving the longstanding crisis. The upcoming summit in Egypt represents a critical moment as Arab leaders aim to collaboratively address the future of Gaza while navigating the complex political landscape shaped by external influences and internal divisions among Palestinians.
