A proposed UN-backed plan to rebuild Gaza, involving a one-year technocratic administration, an international peacekeeping force, the disarmament of Hamas, and opposition to the mass displacement of Palestinians, is under discussion with the US. The goal is to prevent disputes at the UN General Assembly over the symbolic recognition of Palestine as a state.
The UK, alongside France, Canada, Belgium, and Malta, is expected to recognize Palestinian statehood during a UN event on 22 September, coinciding with world leaders’ speeches. Britain had previously suggested it might withhold recognition if Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire, but Israel’s government has firmly rejected a truce and is advancing toward Gaza City.
Efforts are underway to ensure the two-state conference does not become overshadowed by arguments over whether recognition is premature or favors Hamas, accusations leveled by Israel. During recent talks in Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, now deputy prime minister, emphasized the need for "a lasting peace after any ceasefire, supported by monitoring, Hamas’ disarmament, and a new governance structure for Gaza."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, grappling with coalition tensions, has avoided presenting a full post-war plan for Gaza but has repeatedly mentioned maintaining an Israeli presence there and annexing parts of the West Bank.
Discussions on the UN-backed reconstruction plan include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who cautioned that European recognition of Palestine could provoke an Israeli annexation of the West Bank, an expected retaliation.
Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas may visit London before the UN conference. The US has denied him and his delegation visas for the General Assembly, a move criticized by European officials who argue that a reformed PA is vital for a ceasefire and Gaza’s future governance.
Reports of US proposals endorsing Israeli annexation of Gaza and the West Bank have drawn strong opposition from European and Gulf leaders. "Displacement is unacceptable and a red line for Egypt. We will not permit it," Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated.
Tony Blair, who maintains ties with Gulf leaders and Jared Kushner, former US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, has engaged with UK officials and met Trump last week at the White House.
The most contentious issues remain Hamas’ disarmament—a demand from European leaders—and whether figures with past ties to Hamas or militant activities can participate in Palestinian elections.
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