Egyptian diplomatic sources believe a significant shift is underway in US policy toward the Gaza Strip, moving beyond the goals of deterring or limiting the capabilities of the terrorist organization Hamas. According to the Lebanese daily Al-Akhbar, which is considered close to Hamas, Washington is said to be exploring a "more comprehensive vision" that redefines the objectives of the war.
Sources reported that in certain Washington circles, the idea has taken root that the war must be forcibly brought to an end, paving the way for a new political phase in Gaza. This approach, the sources explained, stems not from the framework of current negotiations but from what they described as "historic developments." The proposal envisions treating Gaza as a territory that must first be subdued militarily and then rebuilt, both politically and in terms of security, similar to how Berlin and Tokyo were handled after Germany and Japan were defeated in World War II.
Against this backdrop, the sources noted that increased aid from Israel is seen as inseparable from a broader security initiative in which Israel is the dominant force on the ground. Reconstruction in specific areas would be contingent on the absence of terrorism and the presence of a local force cooperating with Israel on security matters.
According to the sources, the plan has received backing from Arab actors, including the United Arab Emirates. On Sunday, it was revealed that Abu Dhabi is constructing a water pipeline from Egypt to the Gaza Strip.
In contrast, an Egyptian official warned of "the dangers of this new approach," stating that Cairo would seek to "thwart" it in negotiations expected to resume today in Qatar. The senior official expressed concern that if the plan moves forward, its implications could extend beyond Gaza to include Judea and Samaria.
