Arab Nations and Palestinian Authority Secretly Plan Post-War Gaza Governance in Riadh

In a covert gathering held approximately a week ago in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, key representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and the Palestinian Authority strategized on coordinating their positions for the aftermath of the conflict in Gaza. The meeting aimed to discuss ways in which a "renewed Palestinian Authority" could play a role in the administration of the Gaza Strip, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Organized by Saudi National Security Adviser Musaed al-Ivan, the meeting was attended by Palestinian General Intelligence Chief Majed Faraj, Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel, and Jordanian Intelligence Chief Ahmed Hosni. Sources indicate that Israel was informed about the meeting and its contents by some of the participants.

Insiders revealed that the Saudi, Egyptian, and Jordanian representatives emphasized the need for reforms within the Palestinian Authority, including a renewal of leadership ranks. This would involve the transfer of certain powers from President Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) to a newly appointed prime minister.

Notably, the Saudis underscored their continued interest in moving towards normalization with Israel. However, they made it clear that this would be contingent on practical and irreversible steps from Israel and the international community towards the establishment of a Palestinian state. This commitment remains even if these steps do not immediately result in the formation of a Palestinian state.

The embassies of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt in Washington have not provided a response to inquiries about the meeting. Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority Minister of Civil Affairs Hussein al-Sheikh has refrained from commenting on the matter.

As Arab nations and the Palestinian Authority advance in planning for the post-war scenario in Gaza, the situation stands in stark contrast to the sluggish discussions within Israel, where no decisive actions have been taken regarding the matter.