Mohammad Dahlan Photo: Economist
According to the Wall Street Journal, a number of officials, including from Israel, are considering the possibility of appointing Mohammad Dahlan, the former Fatah leader, to oversee Gaza in the post-war period. This proposal suggests that Dahlan could be a temporary solution to the complex situation Gaza will face after the conflict ends.
Potential Candidate and Reactions
Some American, Israeli, and Arab officials view Dahlan as a possible candidate for managing Gaza’s reconstruction. Israeli political analysts argue that Dahlan is someone Jerusalem could work with. Additionally, sources from Arab countries and Hamas report that Dahlan has been negotiating with various parties about the potential control of humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza under Palestinian management.
In February of this year, Dahlan told the New York Times that an independent Palestinian leader, supported by Arab peacekeepers, could take responsibility for Gaza’s reconstruction. He noted that such a leader could sideline Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, relegating him to a ceremonial role. Dahlan also proposed that countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia could send troops and fund the reconstruction of the Strip. Many observers believe Dahlan envisions himself in this role.
Dahlan also mentioned that “leaders of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the Emirates” are open to supporting efforts aimed at establishing a Palestinian state. Currently, Dahlan resides in Dubai.
These discussions and proposals raise significant questions about Gaza’s future and possible paths for its reconstruction after the conflict.
