A $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza, backed by Arab nations, has garnered support from several European countries including France, Germany, Italy, and the U.K., despite facing opposition from the U.S.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the supporting European nations stated that the plan offers “a realistic path” to rebuild Gaza, promising “swift and sustainable improvement” to the living conditions for Palestinians in the region, if properly executed.

The European leaders advocated for a post-war strategy built upon a “solid political and security framework,” while also stressing that Hamas should not govern Gaza. They further expressed their support for the Palestinian Authority’s (PA) “central role” in a post-war Gaza and its efforts to implement reforms.

The Egyptian-led $53 billion plan is presented as an alternative to the U.S. President’s proposal for Gaza and follows Cairo’s refusal to accept displaced Gazans due to “national security” concerns. Unlike the U.S. proposal, which suggests resettling Palestinians outside of Gaza, Egypt’s plan focuses on reconstruction efforts led by Palestinians.

Both the U.S. and Israel have rejected the Arab-backed reconstruction plan. Oren Marmorstein, a spokesperson for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the plan “fails to address the realities” after October 7th, 2023, and is based on “outdated perspectives.”

Marmorstein’s statement also criticized the plan’s reliance on the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), alleging that both have “repeatedly demonstrated corruption, support for terrorism, and failure in resolving the issue.”

While U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff described the plan as a “good faith first step,” State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters that it “does not fulfill the requirements” outlined by President Trump.

National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes also voiced concerns about the proposal, stating that “The current proposal does not address the reality that Gaza is currently uninhabitable.” He added that “President Trump stands by his vision to rebuild Gaza free from Hamas.”

President Trump’s proposal to have the U.S. take over Gaza drew criticism last month. His plan involved relocating Palestinians and transforming the territory into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”

Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.