Cairo Summit on March 4 to Finalize Arab Plan for Gaza Reconstruction

A follow-up summit is scheduled for March 4 in Cairo to finalize a unified Arab plan for the reconstruction of Gaza. This summit aims to build upon discussions held in Riyadh on February 20, where leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE convened to consider Egypt's comprehensive three-phase reconstruction plan. The plan includes the creation of "secure areas" for displaced residents and the establishment of a new Palestinian administration in Gaza, distinct from Hamas and the current PA, to oversee reconstruction efforts. A police force composed of former PA officers would be established. Financial backing for the reconstruction, estimated at $53 billion, is expected from the oil-rich Gulf states. The summit will reaffirm opposition to any forced displacement of Gaza's population. Egypt, along with Qatar and the US, is acting as a mediator in the indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the Gaza ceasefire deal, so the Arab "day after" plan being constructed under Egypt's leadership will probably be put to both sides in due course. Key points to watch include the level of consensus reached on sidelining Hamas and the potential role of the PA in the reconstruction phase. The outcome of this summit could significantly influence the future governance and stability of Gaza.