The White House has reportedly agreed to the Egyptian plan for Gaza reconstruction, but with a significant condition: Hamas must be removed and fully disarmed. This development comes as the international community continues to seek a lasting solution to the Gaza conflict. According to recent reports, Egypt's plan for Gaza reconstruction involves a comprehensive five-year initiative, projected to cost $53 billion.¹ The plan includes a committee of experts to oversee the clearance of rubble and unexploded ordnance, followed by a four-and-a-half-year reconstruction phase. However, the plan's success hinges on addressing the complex issue of Hamas's future. Israel has expressed concerns about the plan, citing the need for a security-only approach in dealing with Hamas. The US role in the process will be crucial, with some suggesting that a coordinated US-Arab effort could help prepare the ground for peace negotiations between the Palestinian Authority and Israel.
Supporters and relatives of Israelis held hostage by Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip since October lift placards during a rally to demand their release in Tel Aviv
Supporters and relatives of Israelis held hostage by Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip since October lift placards during a rally to demand their release in Tel Aviv on August 3, 2024.
Middle East tensions soared Saturday as Iran and its allies readied their response to the assassination of Hamas' political leader, blamed on Israel, spurring fears of a regional war.
Israel ally the United States said it would move warships and fighter jets to the region, while Western governments have called on their citizens to leave Lebanon — where the powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah movement is based — and airlines cancelled flights.
Despite the imminent threat of reprisals from Iran and its proxies, relatives of the hostages held by Hamas gathered in Tel Aviv's so-called Hostage Square on Saturday night to pressure the government to secure the captives' release. Other protesters planned to stage rallies near the residences of Israeli leaders.