Explainer: What’s next for Trump’s Gaza plan after Rafah reopening?
Overview of Trump’s Gaza Plan
Trump’s plan, now in its second phase, has been shaken by repeated Israeli attacks that have killed hundreds in Gaza, as well as resistance by local forces. The reopening of the Rafah crossing with Egypt has provided a boost to the initiative, signaling a potential shift toward de-escalation and humanitarian access.
Key Elements of the Plan
- The 20-point plan prioritizes opening and sustaining humanitarian aid flows into Gaza to ensure access for food, water, and medical supplies.
- Security Council has adopted the plan as a model for Gaza’s postwar transition, lending it legitimacy in international forums.
- Phase II of the plan includes a shift from ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction of infrastructure.
- Trump’s development plan projects that Gaza’s gross domestic product (GDP) could reach $10 billion by 2035, following economic revitalization efforts.
- There is ongoing discussion about whether Hamas will disarm as part of the transition, with local forces weighing a coordinated departure from Gaza.
Challenges and Uncertainties
Despite progress, significant challenges remain. The plan faces resistance from both Israeli military actions and local Palestinian groups. The lack of clear timelines for troop withdrawal and the absence of a binding agreement on Hamas’s disarmament remain unresolved issues.
International Response
The U.S.-backed plan has received attention from international bodies, including the United Nations and the Security Council. However, the implementation of the plan depends on cooperation between Israel, Egypt, and Palestinian leadership, which remains uncertain.