Macron Declares: Hamas Cannot Govern Gaza, Backs Egypt's Reconstruction Plan

French President Emmanuel Macron has firmly stated that Hamas should not have any role in the governance of Gaza. This declaration came during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi in Cairo, where Macron expressed his support for the Egyptian-led Gaza reconstruction plan.

Key Points:

• No Role for Hamas: Macron emphasized that Hamas "must have no role in this governance and must no longer constitute a threat to Israel."
• Support for Egyptian Plan: He lauded Egypt's "crucial work" in proposing a "realistic path to the reconstruction of Gaza," referring to the Arab League's Gaza reconstruction plan unveiled in March.
• Palestinian Authority Leadership: Macron stressed that the reconstruction proposal should "pave the way for new Palestinian governance in the enclave led by the Palestinian Authority."
• Opposition to Displacement and Annexation: Macron voiced strong opposition to any displacement of Palestinians or Israeli annexation in Gaza and the West Bank, warning that such actions would violate international law and threaten regional security.
• Strategic Agreements: El-Sissi and Macron signed strategic partnership agreements in transportation, health, and education.
• Economic Impact on Egypt: El-Sissi acknowledged that tensions in the Red Sea caused by Houthi attacks have negatively impacted Egypt's revenues from the Suez Canal, leading to a $7 billion loss.
• Macron's Upcoming Visit: Macron is scheduled to visit the Egyptian port of el-Arish to meet with humanitarian and security workers involved in transporting aid to Gaza.

Macron's stance aligns with ongoing efforts to mediate between Israel and Hamas, with Egypt, Qatar, and the United States playing key roles. His support for the Palestinian Authority's leadership in Gaza's future governance reflects a broader international effort to foster stability and security in the region.