Egypt’s President, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, has emphasized the need for an international strategy to rebuild Gaza without the forced displacement of its Palestinian residents. Speaking in Madrid alongside Spain’s Prime Minister on Wednesday February 19, Sisi strongly reiterated that Palestinians must not be removed from their land as part of any reconstruction efforts.
This statement came in direct opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial plan, which proposed transforming Gaza into an international beach resort and resettling its Palestinian population elsewhere, including in Egypt and Jordan.
The proposal, which has sparked widespread anger across the Arab world, has been firmly rejected by Egypt, Jordan, and several other Arab nations. These countries have called for a more suitable alternative to Trump’s vision, though reports suggest that tangible progress on a new plan remains limited. Sisi’s remarks reflect the region’s broader frustration with the U.S. approach, which is seen as undermining Palestinians’ rights and territorial integrity.
Further complicating matters, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has faced significant challenges due to a new Israeli law that restricts its operations in the Palestinian territories. The agency, which is vital for providing aid and services to millions of Palestinians, has warned of potential disruptions to its activities in Gaza and the West Bank. Meanwhile, the UAE’s President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed also joined the chorus rejecting the plan to displace Palestinians, as regional leaders prepare to meet in Riyadh to discuss the issue ahead of an Arab League summit in March.
