The United States President Donald Trump’s administration has rejected the Gaza reconstruction plan proposed by Arab leaders. Trump administration stated that President Trump stands by his vision. His vision includes expelling the Palestinian residents of the territory and transforming it into a “riviera” owned by the United States.

White House National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes in a statement on Tuesday said, “The current proposal does not address the reality that Gaza is currently uninhabitable and residents cannot humanely live in a territory covered in debris and unexploded ordnance.”

“President Trump stands by his vision to rebuild Gaza free from Hamas. We look forward to further talks to bring peace and prosperity to the region,” he added.

What Was In The Plan?

The postwar plan for Gaza, proposed by Egypt, called for Hamas to cede power to an interim administration until a reformed Palestinian Authority (PA) can assume control. The plan would allow roughly 2 million Palestinians to remain there in contrast to a proposal presented by Trump.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said that elections will be held in the West Bank, Gaza and occupied East Jerusalem for the first time in nearly 20 years “if circumstances are suitable.”

Meanwhile, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for Trump’s plan for a “different Gaza.”

The USD 53 billion proposal presented by Arab nations calls for rebuilding Gaza by 2030. The first phase calls for the beginning of the removal of unexploded ordnance and clearing over 50 million tons of rubble left by Israel’s bombardment and military offensives.

Jordanian officials said that the plan will be presented to Trump in the coming weeks. Arab states backed Egypt’s plan, however, the extent of its regional support remains uncertain. The document lays out a plan to make shopping malls, an international convention centre, and an airport within five years, CNN reported. It also wants to attract tourists by developing resorts and enhancing the enclave’s Mediterranean coast. It also acknowledges the difficulties it could face in disarming terrorists in the Gaza Strip.

It said, “It is something that can be dealt with, and even ended forever, only if its causes are removed through a clear horizon and a credible political process.”