At an emergency session in Cairo, Arab leaders endorsed a comprehensive plan for Gaza Strip governance and rehabilitation, which they presented as an alternative to U.S. President Donald Trump’s contentious proposal. The Arab League’s united position highlights the significance of regional stability and Palestinian self-determination.
Background on the Proposal Made by President Trump
President Trump put up a proposal in February 2025 that called for the displacement of Gaza’s Palestinian inhabitants and the creation of a U.S.-controlled enclave known as the “Riviera of the Middle East.” About two million Palestinians would be permanently displaced as part of this plan, which also called for the development of Gaza’s shoreline for business and tourism. Critics widely denounced the idea, calling it a violation of international law and a kind of ethnic cleansing.
Arab League’s Counterproposal
During the Cairo conference, Egypt responded by presenting a $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza, which was unanimously approved by the 22-member Arab League. Important elements of this strategy consist of:
Establishing a technocratic committee made up of non-political Palestinian leaders to supervise Gaza’s governance for a six-month transitional period is known as transitional governance. This is intended to make it easier for the Palestinian Authority to eventually resume its governing functions.
Reconstruction Efforts: To boost Gaza’s economy and enhance living circumstances, 200,000 housing units and necessary infrastructure, including as water and sewage systems, will be developed. The Gulf governments are expected to bear the majority of the $30 billion estimated cost of rebuilding Gaza.
International Support and Challenges
António Guterres, the secretary-general of the United Nations, praised the Arab-led initiative and said it was in line with global efforts to bring about a two-state solution and enduring peace in the area.
But the plan has a lot of obstacles to overcome:
Israeli Opposition: Citing pragmatic concerns in Gaza and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s adamant opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, Israeli officials have rejected the proposal.
Hamas role: In an effort to lessen Hamas’s influence in Gaza, the plan specifically bars the organization from holding governing positions. Although the planned technocratic committee has been temporarily accepted by Hamas, there is still uncertainty over the organization’s long-term collaboration.
Regional Consequences
The Arab League’s support of Egypt’s plan represents a coordinated effort to thwart outside initiatives that are thought to jeopardize regional autonomy and Palestinian rights. Arab countries seek to prevent forced displacement and strengthen Palestinian self-determination by emphasizing local administration and restoration. Additionally, the strategy aims to persuade the world community—especially the US—to back a resolution that upholds the rights and ambitions of the Palestinian people.