Egypt and Hamas discuss the rebuilding of Gaza without displacement

Egyptian officials and a Hamas delegation met in Cairo to discuss the rebuilding of Gaza, the ongoing ceasefire implementation and Cairo’s prisoner exchange, the Middle East Monitor reported on February 13th.

Hamas called for for several guarantees for maintaining the truce, including the entry of previously agreed humanitarian aid, such as mobile homes and the facilitation of evacuations for the wounded and sick.

According to informed sources, the Egyptian side talked about Gaza’s future with Hamas as well as how to find ways to stop the planned displacement. They explored alternatives to reconstruct the Strip without forcing Palestinians to leave. In return, Hamas would need to relinquish power in Gaza, with the power transferring to another Palestinian or Arab entity.

The sources indicated the potential of securing a safe exit for Hamas’ military and political leaders from Gaza.

In an interview with Fox News, US President Donald Trump ruled out the possibility of displaced Palestinians returning to Gaza, The National reported on February 10th. This contradicted the sentiments conveyed by his administration that the relocation will be temporary.

Egypt is expected to present a reconstruction plan for the Gaza strip aimed at persuading the US and Israel to abandon any displacement efforts.

Egypt has played a direct role in supporting Gaza’s recovery. On January 26th, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced the launch of the largest humanitarian aid convoy for Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Anadolu Agency. The convoy contains 305 trucks carrying over 4,200 tons of aid and 11 ambulances. The initiative was launched under the slogan “Together for Humanity.”

Middle East Monitor, Anadolu Agency