World Leaders Unite for a Ceasefire in Gaza: A Pivotal Moment
In a significant diplomatic effort, the presidents of the United States and Egypt are leading a gathering of global leaders known as the "Summit for Peace" in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. This summit aims to bring an end to the two-year conflict in Gaza, following a crucial ceasefire agreement that has recently been reached.
Interestingly, neither Israel nor Hamas will be present at this summit, as they lack direct communication with each other. Israel has firmly dismissed any involvement of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority in Gaza, although its leader is expected to attend the summit.
Leaders from various nations, including Turkey, Jordan, Britain, Germany, France, Italy, as well as representatives from the United Nations and the European Union, have confirmed their participation.
This summit coincides with a significant event: Hamas is set to release its last 20 Israeli hostages, while Israel will free hundreds of Palestinians from its prisons. These actions are critical steps following the ceasefire that commenced last Friday. However, many pressing questions linger about the future, raising concerns about a potential return to conflict.
Why Are World Leaders Coming Together?
The impetus for this summit stems from mounting pressure on both Israel and Hamas from the United States, Arab nations, and Turkey to agree on the initial phase of the ceasefire. Both parties require international and regional support—both technical and financial—to navigate the complex challenges ahead.
According to a statement from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, the summit's goal is to "end the war" in Gaza and "usher in a new page of peace and regional stability" in alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision. In March, Egypt proposed a post-war plan for Gaza, which would allow its 2.3 million residents to remain, countering Trump's earlier proposal that aimed to depopulate the area.
The co-chairing of this international summit by the two leaders indicates a collaborative effort to forge a path forward. However, it is unlikely that the summit will delve deeply into the remaining issues, as it is expected to last only about two hours. A joint statement from el-Sissi and Trump is anticipated at the conclusion of the meeting.
Addressing Hostage and Prisoner Exchanges: A Logistical Challenge
The negotiations will need to address several critical issues, including the disarmament of Hamas, the establishment of a post-war government in Gaza, and the extent of Israel's withdrawal from the territory. Trump's plan also calls for regional and international partners to assist in developing a new Palestinian security force.
Another significant challenge is securing funding for the reconstruction of Gaza. Estimates from the World Bank and Egypt's post-war plan suggest that the recovery and rebuilding efforts will require around $53 billion. Egypt is planning to host a future conference focused on reconstruction.
Who Is Not Attending?
Notably absent from the summit are the two main parties involved in the conflict: Israel and Hamas. These adversaries have a history of mistrust and failed negotiations, which complicates the situation further. Previous negotiations in Doha and other rounds have been indirect, facilitated by Egypt and Qatar.
Additionally, Iran, a key supporter of Hamas, will not be present. Currently, Iran is experiencing one of its weakest positions since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. While Iranian officials have framed the ceasefire as a victory for Hamas, it also highlights Iran's diminishing influence in the region and raises concerns about a possible resurgence of conflict with Israel, especially as it continues to recover from the recent 12-day war in June.
A State Function with Global Implications
The summit is expected to see world leaders commend Trump's efforts toward achieving a ceasefire. El-Sissi is likely relieved that Egypt has successfully averted plans to depopulate the Gaza Strip.
Among the expected attendees is Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose country has historically hosted Hamas political leaders and played a crucial role in facilitating the ceasefire agreement. Other nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, are also anticipated to participate.
King Abdullah of Jordan is among the leaders expected to attend, as his country, alongside Egypt, will be involved in training the new Palestinian security force. Germany, a staunch ally of Israel and a major supplier of military equipment, will be represented by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has voiced concerns regarding Israel's military actions and plans for Gaza. He is also set to co-host the reconstruction conference with Egypt.
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer is also on the list of attendees, pledging £20 million (approximately $27 million) to support water and sanitation efforts in Gaza. He has announced that Britain will host a three-day conference to coordinate reconstruction and recovery plans for the region.
Other notable attendees include U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, European Union President António Costa, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The Venue: Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh, a resort town located at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, has a rich history of hosting peace negotiations over the decades. Briefly occupied by Israel in 1956, it later became a site for a United Nations peacekeeping force until 1967. Following a peace treaty with Israel in 1979, Sharm El Sheikh and the Sinai Peninsula were returned to Egypt in 1982.
Today, the town is renowned for its luxury resorts, diving spots, and desert excursions. It has also been the backdrop for numerous peace summits and negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians during the presidency of Hosni Mubarak, who was ousted in 2011. Under el-Sissi's leadership, this summit marks the first peace conference held in Sharm El Sheikh during his tenure.
