In a significant diplomatic move, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has thrown its weight behind Egypt’s alternative proposal to US President Donald Trump’s widely criticized plan for Gaza.
Meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Friday, the 57-member OIC endorsed an initiative already ratified by the Arab League, aiming to rebuild Gaza under the governance of the Palestinian Authority. The plan rejects Trump’s controversial vision of a US-led takeover of Gaza and the forced displacement of its Palestinian residents.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty hailed the endorsement, calling it a “positive step” toward broader international backing. The next goal, he said, is to gain support from global powers like the European Union, Russia, China, and Japan.
Trump’s plan, which envisions turning Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East” while resettling Palestinians in neighboring countries, has sparked outrage across the Arab world. In contrast, the Arab League’s counter-proposal includes a trust fund for Gaza’s reconstruction, signaling a collective regional effort to support the Palestinian cause.
Despite its growing backing among Muslim nations, Egypt’s plan faces resistance from Washington and Israel. US officials say it falls short of expectations, while Israel has outright rejected any initiative that strengthens the Palestinian Authority. The proposal also remains silent on Hamas’ role, adding another layer of complexity.
Meanwhile, the OIC also made headlines by officially readmitting Syria, a move seen as a step toward the country’s reintegration into regional politics after years of isolation.
As tensions continue to escalate, all eyes are now on the global stage, where Egypt and its allies will push for broader acceptance of their vision for Gaza’s future.
