The Arab League's proposal for Gaza emphasizes governance by independent experts and international peacekeeping amid contrasting plans from the US and Israel.
On March 4, the Arab League convened an extraordinary summit in Cairo to discuss a reconstruction plan for Gaza in the wake of ongoing conflict.
This plan has faced outright rejection from both the United States and Israel, yet it remains significant in maintaining negotiation channels concerning Gaza's future.
The summit was a response to controversial remarks by US President
Donald Trump suggesting the possibility of displacing Gaza’s Palestinian populace to Egypt and Jordan to redevelop the territory.
The Arab League's proposal calls for temporary governance of Gaza by a committee composed of independent experts, supported by international peacekeepers.
This committee would oversee the distribution of humanitarian aid and manage Gaza's affairs temporarily while working alongside the Palestinian Authority (PA).
The reconstruction effort is estimated to require around $53 billion, focused on rebuilding the region without displacing its residents.
Abdulrahman Al-Rashed, a prominent Saudi political analyst, discussed the contrasting plans during his appearance on an Arab News current affairs program.
He identified three primary proposals now on the table: the Arab League’s initiative, an Israeli plan centered around occupation, and Trump’s vision, which implies significant Palestinian displacement.
Al-Rashed emphasized that the Arab League’s plan, despite its challenges, serves as a framework for ongoing diplomatic engagement.
The plan's viability may be challenged by Hamas's potential role in Gaza’s governance.
The group, considered a terrorist organization by Israel and many Western nations due to its past militaristic actions, has publicly indicated a willingness to support the plan and collaborate with other Palestinian factions for its implementation, although it has yet to agree to disarmament.
Reports have indicated that the Trump administration is in talks with Hamas, which presents both opportunities and complications.
The U.S. has issued an ultimatum for the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a sustained ceasefire, a development Al-Rashed characterizes as a critical moment in the ongoing crisis.
Al-Rashed has expressed concerns over a potential further escalation of military activity in Gaza, citing the military objectives of Israel.
He has also criticized Hamas for prioritizing its image over humanitarian needs amidst the ongoing conflict.
He acknowledged the influence of Egypt and Qatar, likely to be pivotal in mediating and applying pressure on Hamas.
Additionally, the political climates in Lebanon and Syria were addressed, with recent electoral developments in Lebanon leading to cautious optimism about recovery amidst past challenges.
The recent election of Joseph Aoun as president and Nawaf Salam as prime minister could signal a turning point in Lebanon's complex political landscape.
Meanwhile, in Syria, the departure of the Assad regime and the emergence of the transitional government under Ahmed Al-Sharaa is seen positively by numerous regional actors, including Saudi Arabia.
In Saudi Arabia, significant reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 are positioned to reshape the nation as a force for change within the region, emphasizing a focus on future development and economic well-being over political discourse.
Al-Rashed pointed out the shift in Saudi leadership, suggesting a drive towards a more moderate approach to governance and regional influence.