Palestinian Prime Minister Mohamed Mostafa confirmed that Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza is finalized and ready for implementation. During a joint press conference in Cairo with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Mostafa stated that Egypt and Palestine have reviewed the plan, which aims to rebuild the Strip while preventing the displacement of its residents. He also announced the formation of a committee to coordinate humanitarian services and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
Abdelatty emphasized that the upcoming Arab Summit in Cairo will reaffirm the commitment to establishing a Palestinian state and reject any attempts at displacement.
Meanwhile, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem addressed the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, asserting that discussions for the second phase of the agreement have not yet begun. He accused the Israeli occupation of attempting to prolong the first phase to secure the release of its prisoners while potentially resuming military operations in Gaza, which he argued contradicts the agreement’s terms. Qassem urged mediators and guarantor countries to pressure Israel into fully honoring its commitments and warned that extending the first phase under Israeli conditions is unacceptable.
On the international front, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on all parties to uphold the ceasefire agreement and continue the release of hostages. He emphasized the crucial importance of the coming days, urging both sides to avoid any actions that could jeopardize the truce.
Guterres also stressed the need for a long-term political framework to ensure Gaza’s recovery and stability. He outlined key principles, including adherence to international law, prevention of ethnic cleansing, and opposition to any long-term Israeli military presence. The UN chief reiterated that Gaza must remain part of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state, with its territorial integrity intact and its population protected from forced displacement.
