Arab Leaders Convene in Riyadh to Counter Trump’s Controversial Gaza Plan
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a significant diplomatic assembly, Arab leaders are gathering in Riyadh to formulate a unified response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proposal concerning the Gaza Strip. The U.S. plan suggests relocating over two million Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries and transforming the area into a tourist destination, a move that has sparked widespread condemnation across the Arab world and beyond.
Trump’s Proposal and Immediate Backlash
On February 11, 2025, President Trump announced a plan for the United States to “take over” the Gaza Strip, proposing the displacement of its 2.4 million residents to Egypt and Jordan. He envisioned redeveloping the evacuated territory into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” This announcement was met with swift and stern rebuke from Arab nations, who view the proposal as a blatant violation of Palestinian rights and sovereignty.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, emphasized the kingdom’s unwavering stance: “The establishment of the Palestinian state is a firm, unwavering position… His Highness stressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will not stop its tireless work towards the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
Similarly, Jordan’s King Abdullah II reiterated the nation’s position, stating the need to halt settlement expansion and expressing rejection of any attempts to annex land and displace Palestinians.
The Riyadh Summit: Objectives and Expectations
The summit in Riyadh aims to present a cohesive Arab front against the U.S. proposal and to discuss alternative plans for Gaza’s future that respect Palestinian autonomy and rights. Originally intended for Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Jordan, the meeting has expanded to include the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the Palestinian Authority.
A source close to the Saudi government indicated that leaders would discuss “a reconstruction plan counter to Trump’s plan for Gaza,” focusing on rebuilding the territory without displacing its inhabitants. This initiative underscores the Arab world’s commitment to Palestinian self-determination and regional stability.
Egypt’s Counter-Initiative: A Phased Reconstruction Plan
Egypt has proposed a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza, outlined in three phases over a period of three to five years:
- Early Recovery Phase (Six Months): This initial stage involves deploying heavy machinery to remove debris and identifying safe zones within Gaza to temporarily relocate residents during the rebuilding process.
- International Conference for Reconstruction: The second phase calls for a global summit to detail reconstruction efforts, focusing on restoring essential infrastructure such as utilities, water, and electricity.
- Urban Planning and Development: The final phase aims to oversee urban planning, construct housing units, and establish educational and healthcare services, ensuring a sustainable and self-sufficient Gaza.
Mohamed Hegazy, a member of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the plan also includes launching a political track to implement the two-state solution, providing an incentive for a lasting truce.
Financial Considerations and Regional Cooperation
Financing the reconstruction of Gaza remains a critical challenge. A United Nations estimate places the cost at over $53 billion, with more than $20 billion needed in the first three years alone.
An Arab diplomat familiar with the discussions noted, “In the end, the biggest challenge facing the Egyptian plan is how to finance it.” While countries like Kuwait may contribute funds for humanitarian reasons, other Gulf states are expected to set specific conditions before any financial commitments. Ensuring that reconstruction efforts are not undermined by political factions, particularly Hamas, is a priority for potential donors.
International Perspectives and Legal Implications
The international community has also weighed in on the controversy surrounding Trump’s proposal. Josep Borrell, the former High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the European Union, labeled the U.S. plan as a potential “war crime” under international law. He expressed deep concern over the lack of a robust international response and criticized the proposal for its disregard of established legal norms.
Furthermore, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), representing 57 member states, convened in Saudi Arabia and collectively denounced the U.S. plan. The OIC’s statement emphasized that the proposal “lacks the minimum requirements of justice and destroys the foundations of peace,” reaffirming the organization’s commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Conclusion
The Riyadh summit represents a pivotal moment in Arab diplomacy, as regional leaders unite to oppose a proposal they view as detrimental to Palestinian rights and regional stability. The outcome of this gathering could significantly influence the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and the future of the Palestinian people. As discussions progress, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation, hopeful for a resolution that upholds justice, sovereignty, and lasting peace in the region.
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