US President Donald Trump's administration unveiled its ambitious plan for a unified Palestinian-run Gaza, representing a significant rebuff to Israeli extremists who have sought to deport the Gaza population and build Israeli settlements in their place. The blueprint, revealed during the "board of peace" launch in Davos, envisions a futuristic Gaza with gleaming apartment blocks, office towers, and industrial parks, but its success hinges on whether Trump's administration has the determination to implement it, overcoming Israeli objections and obstruction.
The plan's short-term goals include restoring basic infrastructure, including water, sewage, and electric systems, hospitals, bakeries, and increasing the flow of goods into Gaza. The critical Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt is set to open for traffic next week, marking a significant step towards implementing these goals. US administration officials have committed to achieving these short-term objectives.
However, the plan's long-term success is uncertain, particularly regarding Israeli compliance with the withdrawal schedule from Gaza territory. The blueprint proposes a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces based on agreed-upon standards, but it gives no details, raising questions over whether Israel will comply.
The plan has been hailed by some as a step towards peace and self-reliance for the Gaza population, who are still living in tents and under regular Israeli fire. Trump's administration appears to see its prestige and that of its "board of peace" tied to the ceasefire plan, which could potentially break through the substantial hurdles to a free and peaceful Gaza.
The plan also addresses issues related to disarmament and security, with the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) tasked with overseeing the process. However, there are concerns about Israeli opposition to reopening the Rafah crossing and establishing a Palestinian interim government in territory.
Ultimately, the success of this plan will depend on whether Trump's administration can overcome obstacles and work towards a lasting peace in Gaza. The proposal marks a significant shift away from partitioning Hamas and Israeli-run halves, but its implementation remains uncertain due to opposition within Israel and potentially from other countries that provisionally agreed to provide troops for an international stabilisation force.
The US blueprint makes no mention of the ISF, which was a key part of Trump's peace proposals last year. Instead, it focuses on creating a new Palestinian police force and decommissioning heavy weapons in Gaza. However, this approach may not be enough to overcome Hamas' resistance and ensure a lasting truce.
The plan's short-term goals include restoring basic infrastructure, including water, sewage, and electric systems, hospitals, bakeries, and increasing the flow of goods into Gaza. The critical Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt is set to open for traffic next week, marking a significant step towards implementing these goals. US administration officials have committed to achieving these short-term objectives.
However, the plan's long-term success is uncertain, particularly regarding Israeli compliance with the withdrawal schedule from Gaza territory. The blueprint proposes a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces based on agreed-upon standards, but it gives no details, raising questions over whether Israel will comply.
The plan has been hailed by some as a step towards peace and self-reliance for the Gaza population, who are still living in tents and under regular Israeli fire. Trump's administration appears to see its prestige and that of its "board of peace" tied to the ceasefire plan, which could potentially break through the substantial hurdles to a free and peaceful Gaza.
The plan also addresses issues related to disarmament and security, with the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) tasked with overseeing the process. However, there are concerns about Israeli opposition to reopening the Rafah crossing and establishing a Palestinian interim government in territory.
Ultimately, the success of this plan will depend on whether Trump's administration can overcome obstacles and work towards a lasting peace in Gaza. The proposal marks a significant shift away from partitioning Hamas and Israeli-run halves, but its implementation remains uncertain due to opposition within Israel and potentially from other countries that provisionally agreed to provide troops for an international stabilisation force.
The US blueprint makes no mention of the ISF, which was a key part of Trump's peace proposals last year. Instead, it focuses on creating a new Palestinian police force and decommissioning heavy weapons in Gaza. However, this approach may not be enough to overcome Hamas' resistance and ensure a lasting truce.