Egypt Proposes Comprehensive Vision to Rebuild Gaza Without Displacement, Rejects Trump’s Plan
Egypt has announced it is developing a “comprehensive vision” for the reconstruction of Gaza, ensuring Palestinians remain on their land, in stark contrast to a controversial proposal by former US President Donald Trump to relocate Gaza’s population. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to a just settlement for the Palestinian cause, while rejecting any forced displacement, which the UN has warned would violate international law and equate to “ethnic cleansing.”
Trump’s Controversial Plan Sparks Outrage
During a meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah at the White House, Trump reiterated his plan for the US to take control of Gaza and relocate its 2 million Palestinian residents to Jordan, Egypt, and other locations. King Abdullah firmly rejected the proposal, stating it was opposed by all Arab states and highlighting Egypt’s alternative plan. Trump’s remarks, including claims that Gazans would “live beautifully in another location,” have drawn widespread criticism and fears of a repeat of the 1948 Nakba, when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced.
Egypt’s Alternative Vision for Gaza
Egypt’s Foreign Ministry stated it aims to collaborate with the US to achieve a fair resolution for Palestinians while ensuring their right to remain on their land. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi reinforced this stance during a call with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, stressing that Gaza’s reconstruction must occur without displacing its people. However, details of Egypt’s plan remain undisclosed.
Regional and International Reactions
The proposal has sparked concern among Palestinians, with many fearing pressure on Jordan and Egypt to comply with Trump’s threats. Abeer Barakat, a Gaza-based teacher, expressed frustration, calling Trump’s plan “impossible to achieve” but worrying about regional leaders bending to US demands. Meanwhile, Jordan’s King Abdullah reiterated his country’s opposition to displacement, calling it a unified Arab stance.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, has devastated the region. Over 48,220 people have been killed, and nearly 70% of buildings are damaged or destroyed. The healthcare, water, and sanitation systems have collapsed, leaving millions displaced and facing severe shortages of food, fuel, and medicine.
Upcoming Arab Summit
Egypt is set to host an emergency Arab summit on February 27 to address the crisis, while Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has invited Arab leaders to Riyadh for further discussions. Despite an open invitation from Trump, Egyptian security sources indicate President Sisi will not visit Washington if Trump’s Gaza plan is on the agenda.
