Tue Feb 18 05:21:55 UTC 2025: ## Egypt Unveils Rival Gaza Reconstruction Plan to Counter Trump’s Proposal

**Cairo, Egypt** – Egypt is actively developing a comprehensive plan to rebuild Gaza, directly challenging US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to displace the Palestinian population and transform the territory. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed that Cairo is finalizing a multi-phase reconstruction plan, aiming for completion by next week and initial implementation after an Arab summit on February 27th.

The Egyptian plan, which will be discussed at a five-way Arab meeting in Riyadh on Thursday, focuses on rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure without relocating its residents. Instead, three “secure zones” will be established to temporarily house Palestinians during the initial six-month “early recovery period.” Mobile housing and humanitarian aid will be provided, and the reconstruction effort is projected to create tens of thousands of jobs. The entire project is anticipated to span five years.

This initiative directly counters Trump’s proposal, which has sparked international outrage for suggesting the US “take over” Gaza, resettle its population, and redevelop it as a tourist destination. Trump’s plan has faced strong opposition from Egypt, Jordan, and human rights groups who have condemned it as “ethnic cleansing.” Both Egypt and Jordan have rejected Trump’s pressure to accept Gaza’s residents.

Egypt’s plan involves securing funding through collaborations with European diplomats and Arab partners, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. An international conference on Gaza’s reconstruction is also under consideration.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to Trump’s plan, and Israel’s Defence Minister announced the establishment of a directorate to facilitate the “voluntary departure” of Palestinians from Gaza. Hamas, however, has indicated a willingness to relinquish power, suggesting either a unity government without their participation or a technocratic administration to govern the enclave. The contrasting approaches highlight the deep divisions surrounding the future of Gaza.

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