Arab Leaders Discuss Palestinian Crisis Amid Regional Uncertainty
The meeting came amid growing concerns over a U.S. proposal to redevelop war-torn Gaza into an international resort area and resettle Palestinians in Egypt and Jordan
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Arab leaders convened in Riyadh on Friday to discuss the latest developments in Gaza and explore joint efforts to support the Palestinian cause, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
The meeting brought together high-ranking officials from Gulf states, Egypt, and Jordan, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the humanitarian and political challenges in the region.
Concerns Over U.S. Proposals for Gaza’s Future
Discussions reportedly centered around a proposal, largely championed by Egypt, that seeks to mobilize up to $20 billion in funding over three years from wealthy Gulf and Arab states to aid Gaza’s reconstruction. However, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the financial commitments.
The meeting came amid growing concerns over a U.S. proposal to redevelop war-torn Gaza into an international resort area and resettle Palestinians in Egypt and Jordan. Both Cairo and Amman firmly rejected the plan, citing national security risks and regional stability concerns.
Despite rejecting displacement scenarios, Arab states have yet to formulate a concrete alternative to counter Washington’s vision, raising concerns over the future of Palestinian statehood and Gaza’s long-term stability.
Upcoming Emergency Arab League Meeting in Cairo
During the meeting, leaders welcomed Egypt’s decision to host an emergency Arab League summit on March 4, where further deliberations on Palestinian governance, Gaza’s reconstruction, and regional security are expected.
Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, key U.S. allies, have consistently emphasized that any diplomatic solution must include a viable Palestinian state coexisting with Israel. The Gulf nations have ruled out forced displacement of Palestinians, echoing concerns from regional actors that such a move could reignite historic grievances and destabilize the region.
Echoes of the Past: Fears of a Second Nakba
Palestinians and regional observers have expressed fears that recent proposals could lead to a repeat of the 1948 Nakba (catastrophe), when nearly 800,000 Palestinians were displaced following the establishment of Israel.
The United Nations has highlighted the plight of Palestinian refugees, many of whom have faced multiple displacements over decades, with dire humanitarian conditions in refugee camps across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the occupied territories.
As diplomatic talks continue, the future of Gaza and the broader Palestinian question remains uncertain, with Arab states working to navigate between U.S. pressures, regional security concerns, and longstanding commitments to Palestinian sovereignty.
