US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for a comprehensive plan to address Gaza’s reconstruction and governance as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas draws nearer. Speaking at the Atlantic Council on Tuesday, Blinken outlined a proposal, years in the making, that aims to establish a stable, post-conflict future for Gaza and ensure the continuation of recent strategic gains.
“We have a responsibility to ensure that the strategic gains of the last 15 months endure and lay the foundation for a better future,” Blinken emphasized, stressing the importance of long-term stability in the region. He cautioned against repeating past mistakes in the Middle East, where transitions have often led to instability or the emergence of new authoritarian leaders.
The plan, which has been under development for about a year, involves the Palestinian Authority inviting international partners to help establish an interim government. This government would manage essential services and oversee governance in Gaza, excluding Hamas, which is considered a terrorist organization by the United States and other countries. Blinken also proposed that Arab states and international allies contribute security forces for an interim mission to ensure stability.
In his address, Blinken also discussed broader elements of the Biden administration’s Middle East strategy, including efforts to counter Iran’s influence and foster normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Over the past few months, Blinken has worked with various regional stakeholders, including the Palestinian Authority and Gulf Arab nations, to gain support for the reconstruction and governance plan.
The plan outlines significant reforms for the Palestinian Authority and seeks Arab assistance in training security forces to maintain order in Gaza as the region begins to recover from the devastation caused by the October 2023 war.
