Arab League has united to challenge U.S. plan to turn Palestinian land into a Middle East tourism hub. At a conference in Cairo leaders pledged to rebuild Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire urging international partners, including U.S. to support Palestinian statehood. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed urgency of ending conflict without delay.

However, Israel criticized the Arab leaders for failing to address Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.

Conference held in Cairo saw Egypt propose a $53 billion Gaza reconstruction plan with an initial $20 billion for clearing debris and temporary housing within six months. Arab League nations backed the plan.

Last month U.S. President Donald Trump suggested building a luxury city in Gaza after the war. Jordan’s King Abdullah II emphasized the need to halt Israeli military operations in West Bank highlighting the brutality faced by Palestinians during Ramadan. He reaffirmed that an independent Palestinian state is essential for peace.

Guterres urged all international partners to support Gaza’s reconstruction with financial, political, and humanitarian aid. He condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it a violation of international law. Jordan pledged full support for Palestinian relief efforts.

According to Egypt’s proposal Gaza’s administration will not be under Hamas but instead governed by an interim body responsible for aid distribution and reconstruction. Hamas welcomed the plan.

Despite discussions on rebuilding Gaza, Israel’s foreign ministry accused Arab leaders of ignoring Hamas’ role in October 7 attack. Israeli officials claimed Palestinian authorities and refugee agencies were corrupt and failed to address the crisis effectively.

As war continues, Gaza residents fear another aid cutoff, which could worsen an already dire humanitarian situation. Many described past weeks of starvation recalling times when they had to survive without food for days. Israel’s decision to halt aid is seen as a “genocide” by Gaza residents who pleaded for global intervention to pressure Israel into restoring humanitarian access.

Tom Fletcher, head of UN Human Rights Commission, expressed concern over Israel’s move. Egypt and Qatar key mediators in ceasefire talks, accused Israel of violating agreements by using starvation as a weapon.

After 24 years in Israeli prison Palestinian prisoner Hamed Al-Jarouq reunited with his family and enjoyed his first Iftar meal with them. He had longed for traditional dish Maklouba, which his family prepared to celebrate his return.

Once a leader of Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigade he was sentenced to 35 years in 2002. But recently released through a prisoner exchange.

Gaza’s humanitarian crisis deepens as Israeli forces block aid deliveries. In response, a charity kitchen called “Charity Kitchen” is distributing food to displaced people in Khan Yunis.

Volunteers serve Mujadara (a lentil and rice dish) and soup due to meat shortages caused by border closures. Organization initially served 1,200 to 1,400 meals per day but is struggling to maintain supplies.

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War-torn region faces severe food shortages, with thousands relying on charity kitchens for survival. Gaza residents fear a return to famine-like conditions as international aid remains uncertain.