Arab leaders gathered in Cairo for an emergency summit to propose an alternative to President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan. The meeting focused on Egypt’s $53 billion reconstruction proposal for Gaza, which aims to rebuild the war-torn enclave without displacing its residents.
Before Trump suggested relocating Gazans outside the territory, there had been little momentum among Arab states for large-scale reconstruction. However, with Egypt ruling out the acceptance of displaced Palestinians due to national security concerns, it has taken the lead in crafting its own approach.
Egypt’s plan is divided into two phases: the first, lasting two years and costing $20 billion, and the second, spanning two and a half years with an additional $30 billion investment. The initiative prioritizes rebuilding residential areas and infrastructure. A key feature of the proposal is the formation of a temporary committee to manage Gaza for six months. However, Palestinian leaders have insisted that only Palestinian-led governance will be accepted, rejecting any foreign security presence in the region.
Unlike Trump’s plan, which includes the possibility of relocating Gaza’s residents, the Egyptian proposal emphasizes a local reconstruction effort. It also outlines cooperation between the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, and Jordan to train a security force for Gaza. However, Hamas has already dismissed the plan, and the Palestinian Authority has stated that it will not participate while Hamas remains in control.
Regional funding remains a significant challenge. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are reportedly considering financing Gaza’s reconstruction but expect diplomatic or security concessions in return. Some officials argue that Hamas must be removed from power for financial support to materialize. While the final draft of Egypt’s plan avoids directly addressing Hamas’ future, regional analysts suggest that its success hinges on resolving the group’s influence in Gaza.
At the same time, tensions have emerged between Egypt and Gulf nations over control of the reconstruction process. While Egypt seeks to oversee funding and implementation, concerns have been raised about financial oversight and potential corruption. Gulf states, expected to contribute significant resources, are reportedly demanding stricter transparency measures before committing funds.
Jordan, which has played a diplomatic role in the discussions, has largely stayed out of direct involvement in the reconstruction effort. Following a meeting between Jordanian officials and Trump, it appears the pressure to accept large numbers of displaced Gazans has shifted away from Jordan and onto other regional players.
Amid ongoing negotiations, uncertainty remains about Gaza’s long-term political future. Arab leaders are reportedly considering ways to engage with Trump’s administration to influence his position on the region. While immediate resolutions are unlikely, there is hope that continued dialogue will lead to a shift in U.S. policy regarding Gaza’s future.
For more political updates, visit, DC Brief.
