Blinken Pushes Gaza Reconstruction Plan Amid Protests in Washington

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a last-minute case Tuesday for a comprehensive plan for the post-war reconstruction and governance of Gaza during a speech at the Atlantic Council, a Washington-based think tank. The proposal, which has been in development for a year, aims to ensure stability and security in the region after the Biden administration leaves office.

“We have a responsibility to ensure that the strategic gains of the last 15 months endure and lay the foundation for a better future,” Blinken said. “All too often, in the Middle East, we’ve seen how the shoes of one dictator can be filled by another, or give way to conflict and chaos.”

The plan envisions the Palestinian Authority inviting international partners to establish an interim governing authority to manage critical services and oversee the territory. Arab states would provide security forces in the short term, while the U.S. would lead efforts to train and equip a Palestinian-led security force for Gaza. The proposal also includes a pathway to an independent Palestinian state, a point of contention with Israel.

Blinken’s speech was interrupted several times by protesters, who accused him of complicity in alleged Israeli war crimes. Despite the disruptions, Blinken remained composed and continued to outline the administration’s vision for Gaza.

The U.S. has faced resistance from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Arab nations in its efforts to advance the plan. Israel has opposed calls for its complete withdrawal from Gaza and the Palestinian Authority’s lead role in governance, while Arab nations have insisted on a ceasefire before discussing post-war plans. However, Blinken has secured support from Gulf Arab states, which would fund reconstruction efforts.

Blinken also criticized Israel for withholding tax revenue from the Palestinian Authority and opposing a significant future role for the West Bank leadership in Gaza. He urged the Palestinian Authority to implement reforms to build more transparent and accountable governance.

The urgency of the plan has intensified following recent developments in the region. U.S. officials have engaged with Trump administration aides to ensure the plan’s continuity, fearing it might be abandoned like previous post-conflict proposals.

Blinken emphasized the importance of normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, calling it a key incentive for achieving lasting peace. He noted that much of the groundwork for normalization has been completed, but stressed that progress on Gaza and a Palestinian state is essential for its realization.