Arab Leaders Unveils New Gaza Reconstruction Plan

At the conclusion of a lengthy meeting, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, the Secretary-General of the Arab League, stated, “The Egypt plan is now an Arab plan.” He emphasized that “the Arab position is to reject any form of displacement, whether voluntary or forced,” without directly referencing President Trump’s proposals.
Initially, Egypt had put forward a detailed 91-page plan, complete with images of green neighborhoods and impressive buildings, as a counter to a U.S. initiative described as a “Middle East Riviera,” which stunned the Arab world.
What sets this new plan apart from the U.S. one is its focus not only on infrastructure development but also on political matters, particularly the rights of Palestinians. During his opening speech, Egypt’s President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi stressed the need for a solution that would be carried out alongside the reconstruction efforts, aiming for a two-state solution—one for Israel and one for Palestine. Many Arab nations and others view this as the only viable long-term resolution, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his supporters firmly reject it.
The Arab plan suggests that Gaza would temporarily be governed by a “Gaza management committee” under the Palestinian government, composed of qualified technocrats. It does not clearly define Hamas’s role but notes that the issue of militant groups would be resolved once the core causes of the conflict with Israel are addressed. While some Arab nations call for Hamas’s disbandment, others believe that decision should be left to the Palestinians. Hamas has reportedly accepted that it will not manage Gaza, but it has made it clear that disarming is not an option.
To address security concerns, the plan proposes the deployment of international peacekeepers by the UN Security Council. An international conference is set to take place next month to raise the large amounts of funding required for the rebuilding process, with wealthy Gulf states expected to contribute. However, investments will only come if stability is ensured, as the fragile ceasefire currently in place is close to breaking down.
The rebuilding of Gaza is planned in three phases, with the first phase focusing on clearing debris and unexploded ordnance over a period of approximately six months. The next two phases will take several years to complete. During this time, around 1.5 million displaced Palestinians would be housed in temporary container units, which are shown in promotional materials as attractive, well-designed homes in pleasant surroundings.
President Trump has questioned, “Why wouldn’t they want to move?” His characterization of Gaza as a “demolition site” highlights the extent of the destruction. Reports state that 90% of homes in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, with basic infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, sewage systems, and electricity lines in ruins.