Washington: Secretary Blinken has unveiled a comprehensive plan for establishing a post-war administration in Gaza, aiming to stabilize the region and promote Palestinian self-determination. "We will hand off that plan to the Trump administration to carry forward, but let me share a few of its core elements this morning," Secretary Blinken disclosed. The proposal suggests that the Palestinian Authority (PA) should lead an interim administration with international partners, managing essential civil sectors in Gaza such as banking, water, energy, and health. This administration would include representatives from Gaza and the PA, working in close cooperation with a senior UN official to oversee the international recovery effort. According to Kuwait News Agency, Blinken emphasized the creation of an interim security force composed of partner nation security forces and vetted Palestinian personnel. This force would secure the environment for humanitarian and reconstruction efforts and ensure border security to pr event Hamas from rebuilding its military capacity. Blinken stressed that the initiative is contingent upon Gaza and the West Bank being reunified under a reformed PA as part of a move towards an independent Palestinian state. The plan is designed to be mutually reinforcing and time-bound, aiming to provide Palestinians with a clear path to political self-determination. Secretary Blinken highlighted the importance of both parties making difficult decisions to move towards peace. He criticized Israel for undermining the PA's capacity and legitimacy by withholding tax revenues essential for providing services in the West Bank. "Just this week, U.S. engagement led Israel to agree to unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in PA tax revenues, a welcome step," Blinken noted. However, he pointed out that Israel continues to hold significant funds that the PA needs urgently. Additionally, Blinken expressed concerns over Israel's settlement expansion and the rise of violent attacks by settlers against Palestinian civi lians, which have escalated tensions. Blinken also acknowledged the challenges faced by Israel in Gaza, with Hamas operating within civilian areas. He argued that a military campaign alone cannot defeat Hamas and that a political solution offering Palestinians a credible alternative is essential to prevent future insurgencies. Blinken further criticized the Palestinian Authority for not implementing necessary reforms to address corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies, which have diminished its support among Palestinians.
