The United States has proposed a controversial plan to relocate two million Palestinians from Gaza to territories within Egypt and Jordan. This plan has prompted a cautious response from Egypt, whose foreign ministry expressed a desire to collaborate with President Trump to address the ongoing Gaza crisis. However, Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has made it clear that he will not visit Washington while such displacement discussions remain on the table. Meanwhile, the US insists that no official visit between Sisi and Trump has been scheduled.
Reports indicate that former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken envisioned a temporary role for global powers and the United Nations in Gaza until the Palestinian Authority (PA) could assume control. Egypt, however, has introduced its own initiative, which focuses on training a new security force and identifying Palestinian technocrats to manage early recovery projects in Gaza. A key aim of Egypt's plan is to avert mass displacement while simultaneously bolstering the Egyptian economy. Furthermore, Egypt is concerned about the potential for extremism and instability should more Palestinians be displaced, given it already hosts over 100,000 Gazans.
Egypt's stance reflects the broader regional dynamics, with some Arab leaders set to convene in Saudi Arabia to discuss an alternative "comprehensive vision" for Gaza. Additionally, Egypt has called for an Arab summit in Cairo on February 27th to further deliberate on the issue. The US has made its position clear, asserting that Hamas must have no future role in Gaza, a sentiment echoed by Egyptian authorities who are committed to a two-state solution envisioning an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.
The ongoing conflict between the Israeli army and Palestinian resistance groups remains a central concern, with no peace established between them. This tension exacerbates the complexity of the proposed displacement plan. Abdo, a civil engineer, voiced apprehension over relocating Palestinians into Egyptian territories.
"We'd be moving the battlefront from their land into our own!" – Abdo, a civil engineer
He further elaborated on the risks such displacement could pose.
"The Israeli army and the Palestinian resistance are eternal enemies and there is no peace between them. This would mean us giving Israel a pretext to attack them on our land in the name of self-defence." – Abdo, a civil engineer
Local perspectives reflect the sentiment that Palestinians should remain on their land rather than being relocated to neighboring countries. A shop owner expressed concerns regarding the influx of refugees.
"Life is getting more difficult for us with the number of refugees we've already got. Imagine if we take in more!" – A shop owner
He also emphasized a preference for self-reliance over seeking assistance from the United States.
"The Palestinians need to live on their own land not ours. We don't need anything from the USA." – A shop owner
Despite these challenges, Egypt is committed to addressing the crisis diplomatically. President Sisi has initiated a behind-the-scenes diplomatic effort to communicate Egypt's position firmly to the United States. This diplomatic maneuver aims to convey Egypt's commitment to a peaceful resolution that aligns with its national interests.
The economic repercussions of the Gaza conflict have been significant for Egypt, with losses amounting to $8 billion in Suez Canal revenues. This economic strain underscores the urgency for a sustainable solution that mitigates further instability and fosters regional cooperation.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the complexity of the situation and remained open to alternative proposals.
"Now, if someone has a better plan – and we hope they do," – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
The Egyptian government remains resolute in its stance, as reflected by local support for President Sisi’s approach. A shop owner voiced solidarity with the government's efforts.
"I stand by Sisi and the government and we're ready to face the full consequences." – A shop owner
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