The Saudi-Egyptian Integration: The First Arab Response to the Palestinian Displacement Plan

The article was published on the 180 Post website.

On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, Egypt will host a pivotal Arab summit aimed at presenting an alternative to the U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial "Middle East Riviera" former plan.
This proposal seeks to displace Gaza's residents to Egypt and Jordan, transforming the region into an American-Israeli enclave.​

This plan, reminiscent of longstanding Israeli agendas since 1948 and backed by U.S. support, poses significant threats to the Arab national security and interests, including those of Palestine.​

In recent weeks, Arab leaders have collectively rejected the new Palestinian displacement scheme. While reactions varied, Egypt and Saudi Arabia voiced the strongest opposition, especially in light of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statements about annexing Saudi territories and relocating Palestinians there.​

Despite a softening in U.S. and Israeli rhetoric, possibly as a tactical move to quell Arab public outrage and official dissent, it's imperative for Arab nations to adopt a clear, actionable political and economic strategy. Such a plan would counter the ambitions of Trump and Netanyahu while supporting Gaza's residents to remain steadfast in their homeland.​

Saudi Arabia and Egypt: Leading the Charge

Saudi Arabia and Egypt are uniquely positioned to spearhead efforts against this displacement plan. Together, they form a formidable political and economic alliance capable of safeguarding the Arab region.​

In a previous article, strategies of Egypt to counter the Palestinian displacement conspiracy were discussed. This piece focuses on Saudi Arabia's strengths, emphasizing the synergy between the two nations. Egypt brings political clout, while Saudi Arabia offers economic might.​

Israel's primary goal has been to normalize relations with Saudi Arabia, believing that such a move would encourage other Arab nations to follow suit, given Saudi Arabia's religious significance and political influence.​

The Palestinian resistance's actions on October 7, 2023, reignited global attention on the Palestinian cause, exposing Israel's aggressive policies. This shift in perception, especially among younger Saudis, has increased awareness of Israel's expansionist agenda and the injustices faced by Palestinians.​

Displacing Gaza's residents, including Hamas members, is neither practical nor feasible. Such actions would likely bolster the group's popularity across the Arab world.​

Potential Consequences of Displacement

Implementing the displacement plan would likely incite widespread anger among Arab youth, particularly in Saudi Arabia. It would also undermine the sovereignty of the Arab nations, as the displacement aligns with Israel's vision of a "Greater Israel," threatening regional stability.​

Saudi Arabia's Strategic Assets

Saudi Arabia's strengths include:​

• Being the world's leading oil exporter.​

• A vast geographical area with a significant population.​

• Religious significance as the birthplace of Islam.​

• A robust economy with diversified sectors, aligned with Vision 2030.​

• The capability to facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza.​

Strategic Actions for Saudi Arabia

1. Economic Support for Egypt: By bolstering Egypt's economy, Saudi Arabia can empower it to take decisive political actions, such as reconsidering the Camp David Accords, thereby challenging U.S. and Israeli interests.​

2. Leveraging Financial Influence: Saudi Arabia can reconsider its financial support to the U.S., including recent substantial investments, to exert pressure on American policies.​

3. Oil Export Policies: Adjusting oil export strategies and foreign investment privileges can serve as leverage in diplomatic negotiations.​

Conclusion

While some Arab leaders may have reservations about Palestinian factions, passive approaches are no longer viable. A unified Arab strategy, emphasizing the establishment of a Palestinian state as outlined in the 2002 Beirut Peace Initiative, is essential. The upcoming summit in Egypt will be a litmus test for Saudi Arabia's commitment to this cause.​