In brief
Gulf Arab leaders are set to collaborate with Egyptian and Jordanian officials to develop a counter-proposal for Gaza, aiming to preserve Palestinian residency and self-determination.
In the wake of President Trump's controversial plan for the future of Gaza, leaders from Gulf Arab nations are convening in Riyadh to strategize alongside their Egyptian and Jordanian counterparts. This urgent meeting is designed to counter Trump's proposal that the U.S. could take control of the territory and displace Palestinian residents to countries like Egypt and Jordan. Trump’s suggestion, which he unveiled last month, was met with widespread condemnation and disbelief throughout the Arab world. In response to the shock, Trump's aides have framed the proposal as a challenge for Middle Eastern leaders to present a viable alternative. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized this point last week, stating, "If the Arab countries have a better plan, then that’s great.” This has propelled Arab governments to collaborate urgently to devise a new approach for Gaza.Officials from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE are working together on an initiative that would focus on funding and overseeing the reconstruction of Gaza, while ensuring that the two million Palestinian residents remain in their homes and that the prospect of a Palestinian state is preserved.Several ambitious proposals have emerged regarding the future of Gaza, but none have gained significant traction. One notable suggestion came from Emirati businessman Khalaf al-Habtoor, who proposed an extensive plan to rebuild Gaza in a timeframe of “years, not decades.” As the situation unfolds, the Arab leaders are dedicated to putting forth a united front against Trump's controversial approach to Gaza.
