Egypt Daily News – Major General Mohamed Ibrahim El-Duwairi, Deputy Director of the Egyptian Center for Thought and Strategic Studies, has outlined Egypt’s firm stance on the future of Gaza, emphasizing a well-structured Egyptian-Arab plan for reconstruction. He reiterated that Palestinians would govern Gaza the day after the war ends through a transitional Community Support Committee.
Rejecting Displacement, Advocating Stability
The issue of Palestinian displacement and attempts to resettle them in neighboring countries continues to raise critical concerns about the region’s future. Questions persist regarding what will happen once the war in Gaza ends and the steps needed to achieve a two-state solution.
A recent proposal by Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has drawn significant backlash. Lapid suggested that Egypt should administer Gaza for at least eight years post-war in exchange for international relief on its external debt. This proposition has been widely criticized as an Israeli attempt to expand the conflict and delay Palestinian sovereignty.
Egypt’s Unwavering Stance
Major General El-Duwairi emphasized that Egypt’s position on the Palestinian issue has been consistent and unwavering for decades. He underscored two fundamental principles:
- The Palestinian cause remains a top priority for Egypt’s national security, with all efforts being deliberate and strategic.
- Egypt’s support for Palestine has been steadfast since 1967 and will not change in the future.
Six Principles for Post-War Gaza
El-Duwairi detailed Egypt’s vision for the day after the war, structured around six key principles:
- Comprehensive Reconstruction Plan – Egypt is preparing a detailed Egyptian-Arab strategy for rebuilding Gaza, set to be announced at the emergency Arab Summit in Cairo on March 4.
- Humanitarian Aid Expansion – Egypt is leading efforts to maximize humanitarian assistance, ensuring better living conditions for Palestinians. Currently, 80% of the aid reaching Gaza originates from Egypt.
- Palestinian Governance – Gaza’s administration will be in the hands of Palestinians through a Community Support Committee during a transitional phase.
- Complete Israeli Withdrawal – A full civilian and military withdrawal of Israeli forces is necessary.
- Ending the War – A total ceasefire must be enforced.
- Gradual Reconstruction & Political Resolution – A phased rebuilding process will pave the way for a political settlement and the eventual establishment of a two-state solution.
A Political Path Forward
El-Duwairi highlighted Egypt’s proactive role in advocating for a political solution to the conflict. Just two weeks after the October 7 attacks, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi introduced a roadmap, emphasizing that military action alone would not resolve the Palestinian issue.
By December 2023, Egypt had proposed a structured ceasefire agreement, featuring a three-phase plan with clearly defined steps. Despite challenging negotiations, Egypt has played a crucial role in preserving the first phase of the truce and securing consensus among stakeholders.
A Message to the World
Recognizing Egypt’s immense efforts, El-Duwairi commended the security teams and leadership involved in the ceasefire negotiations. He reaffirmed Egypt’s stance that Palestinian displacement is a red line that will not be crossed, asserting that the Palestinian people will remain on their land.
In his closing remarks, El-Duwairi called for national unity, emphasizing the need for Egyptians to stand behind their leadership. He stressed that 110 million Egyptians reject any displacement plans, urging the international community—particularly the United States—to acknowledge this firm position.
He also expressed hope that the upcoming Arab Summit on March 4 would present a unified and decisive rejection of displacement, ensuring that this message reaches world leaders, including President Biden and former President Trump.
