Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – February 21, 2025 – In a decisive move, leaders from seven Arab nations convened in Riyadh today to formulate a unified response to U.S. President Donald Trump's contentious proposal to depopulate and seize control of the Gaza Strip. The high-stakes meeting, orchestrated by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscores the region's commitment to Palestinian self-determination and regional stability.
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The Trump Proposal: A Radical Shift
President Trump's plan advocates for the forced relocation of Gaza's approximately two million residents, envisioning a transformation of the area into the "Riviera of the Middle East" under U.S. administration. This proposal has been met with widespread condemnation from Palestinian leaders and the international community, who view it as a severe violation of human rights and a destabilizing force in the region.​
Riyadh Summit: A Unified Arab Response
The Riyadh summit brought together key figures, including Jordan's King Abdullah II, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad Al Sabah, and Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The primary objective: to develop a cohesive strategy that counters the U.S. proposal and safeguards the rights and homes of Gaza's residents.​
Egypt's Reconstruction Initiative
Central to the discussions was Egypt's comprehensive three-phase reconstruction plan for Gaza:​elpais.com
Immediate Recovery (First 6 Months): Focus on debris removal and essential infrastructure repairs to facilitate the return of displaced individuals.​
International Collaboration (Following Years): Organize a global conference to secure funding and technical support for extensive rebuilding efforts.​
Sustainable Development and Governance: Establish long-term housing solutions, restore public services, and initiate political dialogues aimed at achieving a two-state solution.​
This plan emphasizes reconstruction without displacement, directly opposing the U.S. proposal. However, the estimated $53 billion required for Gaza's full recovery presents a significant financial challenge. Gulf nations, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have expressed willingness to contribute, but specific commitments are still under negotiation.​
Governance: A Complex Challenge
Beyond financial considerations, determining Gaza's future governance remains contentious. Israel and its Western allies oppose Hamas's continued control over the enclave, while also expressing reservations about reinstating the Palestinian Authority. Egypt's proposal suggests a governance structure excluding both Hamas and the current Palestinian Authority, aiming for a neutral administration to oversee reconstruction and maintain security. This approach seeks to prevent further escalation and promote a stable environment conducive to peace negotiations.​apnews.com
Regional Implications and International Reactions
The urgency of a unified Arab response is heightened by concerns from neighboring countries. Egypt and Jordan, in particular, face pressure from the U.S. to accept displaced Palestinians, a move both nations staunchly oppose due to potential security risks and socio-economic burdens. President Trump has threatened to withhold substantial aid from these countries should they refuse cooperation, intensifying diplomatic tensions.​
Internationally, reactions to the U.S. plan have been predominantly negative. European nations and global organizations have criticized the proposal, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law and protecting human rights. The United Nations has called for restraint and urged all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to achieve a peaceful resolution.​
Looking Ahead: The Cairo Summit
The outcomes of the Riyadh meeting are set to be further deliberated at the upcoming Arab League summit in Cairo on March 4. The goal is to present a unified Arab plan that not only counters the U.S. proposal but also offers a viable roadmap for peace and reconstruction in Gaza. This plan aims to garner international support, emphasizing regional solutions and collaboration over external interventions.​
Conclusion
The Riyadh summit marks a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy, showcasing a collective Arab effort to address one of the region's most pressing crises. As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution that upholds justice, sovereignty, and lasting peace for the Palestinian people.​
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Source: AlJazeera​
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