Egypt's Ambassador on Gaza Reconstruction: $70 Billion Needed, Role of US, and Future Governance

Egypt's Role in Gaza Ceasefire and Reconstruction

• 🇪🇬 Egypt is actively working with American, European, and regional partners to consolidate a ceasefire agreement that has ended the war in Gaza.
• 🤝 Key issues being addressed include security arrangements, transitional governance, reconstruction, and ensuring humanitarian and medical aid.
• 🇺🇸 The steadfast and assertive leadership of the United States, particularly President Trump, is credited with being instrumental in reaching this pivotal point.

Future Governance of Gaza

• 🇵🇸 Hamas understands it has no future role in the political governance of Gaza in a post-war era.
• 🧑‍⚖️ Discussions among Palestinian factions in Egypt indicate a future led by independent Palestinian technocrats, potentially paving the way for the return of the Palestinian Authority.

Challenges and Optimism

• ⚠️ While acknowledging that challenges and setbacks are expected in such a complex, long-standing conflict, there is optimism due to the momentum and commitment from regional members and the US.
• 🕊️ Egypt's historical support for the Palestinian cause and its pioneering role in seeking peace, including the 1970s peace treaty with Israel, underscores its commitment to regional stability.

International Stabilization Force and Donor Conference

• 🛡️ Egypt supports the concept of an international stabilization force in Gaza, with discussions focusing on its composition, structure, mandate (ideally Security Council-mandated), and duration.
• 🌍 A donor conference, scheduled for the second half of November, is deemed of absolute importance for global support in reconstructing Gaza.
• 💰 The estimated cost for reconstruction is $60 to $70 billion, an increase from previous assessments due to further damage to critical infrastructure.

Path Forward and Palestinian Aspirations

• 📈 Progress is being made through incremental steps, including the halt of Israeli bombardment (with exceptions), release of hostages and detainees, and return of Israeli bodies, building momentum for the second phase.
• ⚖️ Egypt believes the Palestinian people deserve their own country, exercising their right to self-determination, freedom, and independence, aligning with American values.
• 💪 Political perseverance and diligence from both Israel and Hamas are crucial to consolidate the agreement and prevent it from unraveling.