Cairo Declaration

The Cairo Declaration emerged from an Emergency Summit of the Arab League on March 4, 2025. This summit was convened in response to Israel’s cessation of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The declaration outlines a $53-billion reconstruction plan for Gaza. It marks collective Arab strategy for the future of the Palestinian enclave. The plan is contingent on the full implementation of the recent ceasefire agreement.

Context of the Cairo Declaration

The Cairo Declaration is the first comprehensive Arab proposal since the United States’ controversial plan for Gaza. It aims to establish a “Gaza administration committee” comprised of qualified Gazans. This committee would oversee a transitional period aimed at restoring governance. The declaration also promises a trust fund for recovery projects and calls for UN peacekeeping forces in the region.

Continuity in Arab Position

The declaration reiterates support for a two-state solution. It aligns with the Arab Peace Initiative first proposed in 2002. The Arab League insists on the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This reflects a long-standing Arab consensus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Role of Palestinian Factions

The declaration emphasises the need to unify all Palestinian factions under the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). This is crucial for representing the Palestinian people effectively. However, the PLO does not currently include Hamas, which complicates the political landscape.

Reactions to the Declaration

Reactions to the Cairo Declaration have been mixed. Hamas welcomed the plan, particularly the proposal for fresh elections. Conversely, both Israel and the United States expressed criticism. The lack of mention of Hamas was point of contention. Israel has historically rejected any role for the Palestinian Authority (PA) in Gaza.

Challenges to Implementation

The Cairo Declaration faces challenges. Israel’s military actions must cease for the plan to be viable. Additionally, cooperation from Israel is essential for the reconstruction efforts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s position on Hamas complicates this cooperation. The ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements poses a further obstacle to the two-state solution.

Future of Palestinian Statehood

The order of events for peace includes a cessation of Israeli military actions, followed by the reconstruction plan. The political question of Palestinian statehood remains unresolved. The Cairo Declaration serves as a preparatory document for a future that is yet to be realised.

Visualising Gaza’s Future

The Cairo Declaration aims to counter US proposals with a vision of a prosperous Gaza. This vision includes luxurious landscapes and architecture. However, without Israeli cooperation, the plan’s implementation remains uncertain.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the implications of the Cairo Declaration for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
2. Critically examine the role of the Palestine Liberation Organization in Palestinian politics.
3. Explain the concept of a two-state solution in the context of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
4. What are the challenges faced by international peacekeeping forces in conflict zones? Discuss with examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the implications of the Cairo Declaration for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

1. Establishes a $53-billion reconstruction plan contingent on a ceasefire, denoting international support for Gaza.
2. Reiterates the two-state solution, emphasizing Palestinian statehood based on 1967 borders, which could alter negotiations.
3. Calls for a unified Palestinian administration, potentially sidelining Hamas and altering power dynamics in the region.
4. Criticism from Israel and the US reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions and differing visions for Gaza’s future.
5. Increases Arab League’s influence in the peace process, potentially reshaping regional alliances and responses to the conflict.

2. Critically examine the role of the Palestine Liberation Organization in Palestinian politics.

1. The PLO serves as the recognized representative of the Palestinian people, aiming for unified governance and representation.
2. Its exclusion of Hamas complicates political unity, as Hamas has support in Gaza and challenges PLO authority.
3. Calls for reform within the PLO indicate internal struggles to adapt to changing political landscapes and public sentiments.
4. The PLO’s historical commitment to the two-state solution aligns with international norms but faces challenges from hardline factions.
5. Its effectiveness is often questioned due to perceived corruption and inability to address Palestinian grievances adequately.

3. Explain the concept of a two-state solution in the context of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

1. The two-state solution envisions an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, based on pre-1967 borders.
2. It aims to resolve territorial disputes, address refugee issues, and establish mutual recognition between Israelis and Palestinians.
3. International support from entities like the UN and Arab League marks its perceived legitimacy and necessity for peace.
4. Challenges include Israeli settlement expansion, Palestinian political fragmentation, and differing national narratives.
5. Geopolitical interests from regional and global powers complicate negotiations, often leading to stalled peace processes.

4. What are the challenges faced by international peacekeeping forces in conflict zones? Discuss with examples.

1. Peacekeeping forces often operate in hostile environments where local factions may oppose their presence, risking their safety.
2. Lack of clear mandates can lead to confusion and ineffectiveness, as seen in Lebanon and Somalia during the 1990s.
3. Logistical challenges, such as supply chain disruptions and inadequate resources, hinder operational capabilities.
4. Political complexities, including differing agendas among stakeholders, can undermine peacekeeping efforts, as seen in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
5. Local governance issues, including corruption and lack of legitimacy, can impede the establishment of lasting peace and security.