Egypt has proposed a $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza, outlining a governance structure that omits direct mention of Hamas, despite the group’s critical role in the territory. The plan aims to establish a non-partisan committee followed by a return of the PA, as regional and international stakeholders navigate the complexities of post-war governance amid longstanding Israeli occupation issues.
Egypt recently unveiled a comprehensive 91-page reconstruction plan for Gaza at an Arab League summit, detailing a budget of $53 billion and a timeline of five years for revitalizing the region ravaged by warfare. Notably, the proposal makes no explicit reference to Hamas, the governing entity in Gaza since 2007, while outlining a vision for governance that involves a technocratic committee for initial oversight, subsequently transitioning to the Palestinian Authority (PA).
This plan positions Arab states, including Egypt, as offering an alternative to the U.S. proposal aimed at displacing Palestinians from Gaza. During the plan’s initial six months, a non-partisan committee would oversee governance, followed by the PA’s resumption in governance. Although Hamas is not mentioned, the group has responded positively, advocating for the proposal’s implementation as part of the reconstruction framework.
Experts assert that despite being sidelined in the document, Hamas’ approval remains crucial for any governance structure. Qossay Hamed, an academic at Al-Quds Open University, stated, “Nobody will rule Gaza without Hamas’ agreement,” further emphasizing that Hamas will retain a central role despite the lack of direct mention in the proposal.
Hamas officials have expressed disinterest in participating in the new administrative structure, highlighting their identity primarily as a resistance movement focused on military engagement rather than political authority. Although there are suggestions for Hamas to reduce its governance role, its armed wing remains a significant aspect of its influence in the region.
However, the plan does address the existence of armed groups in Gaza, asserting that resolving the underlying issues concerning violence requires a legitimate political resolution restoring rights to Palestinians. It suggests that the establishment of a Palestinian state and an end to Israeli occupation would essentially put an end to resistance initiatives.
Given the current political climate, there are no pressing demands from Israel for a shift regarding the occupation, allowing groups like Hamas to remain armed. The proposed plan states that Egypt and Jordan will assist in training Palestinian police forces for deployment post-conflict, and advocates for an international presence in both Gaza and the West Bank.
For the PA to regain legitimacy, it must foster public support, potentially leading to an electoral process. There is speculation that Hamas could evolve into a new political entity while retaining influence. Observations of PA’s diminishing credibility due to corruption and lack of democratic practices further highlight the political complexities ahead for Gaza’s governance.
In addition, notable figures like Marwan Barghouti might emerge as rallying points due to their broad support across different factions, though the dynamics within Israel’s government may impede the rise of strong Palestinian leaders. Ultimately, Egypt’s plan calls for a reevaluation of governance in Gaza, heavily influenced by Hamas’ future role and the political and social fabric of Palestinian society.
In summary, Egypt’s post-war Gaza plan delineates a reconstruction framework that intentionally excludes Hamas from direct mention, while recognizing the group’s indispensable role in governance. Despite Hamas’ expressed disinterest in administrative functions, the group’s military presence remains pivotal for any governing transition. The ongoing political challenges faced by the PA, alongside the implications of international influences, suggest a complex pathway ahead for Gaza, shaped significantly by internal Palestinian dynamics and the persistence of Israeli occupation.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
