### Arab Leaders Converge in Riyadh Over Gaza Strategy#### What’s happeningLeaders from eight Arab countries convened in Riyadh to address President Trump’s proposal for the Gaza Strip. The U.S. plan, aiming to provocatively incentivize regional allies to disempower Hamas, has spurred the Arab world to formulate their own strategies for Gaza.#### Why it mattersThis assembly marks a critical attempt by Arab states to engage the Palestinian Authority (PA) in a meaningful way while excluding PA President Mahmoud Abbas from direct discussions. Such exclusion can provoke shifts in Palestinian political dynamics which are essential for aligning with broader regional stability desires. #### ContextWhile crafting their plan, Arab states reached consensus on the necessity of Palestinian Authority participation but were circumspect about Abbas’s involvement, considering it potentially counterproductive. The leaders indicate an urgent shift away from traditional PA leadership.#### The Role of Mahmoud AbbasSuggesting a retreat from reliance on Abbas, countries like UAE and Qatar highlight their struggles concerning corruption and past political decisions detrimental to regional media stances. Abbas, not attending the summit, underscores a disconnect from current regional political currents.#### The Israel DimensionImportantly, even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is hesitant about simply transitioning power to Abbas’ controlled PA, showing resolute opposition to Hamas yet seeking solutions beyond traditional paradigms.#### Strategic InsightsThe Arab conglomerate’s plan — intricately linking PA’s administrative potential and regional responsibility — could pivotally shape how Gaza governance reforms. Accommodating non-militant Hamas personnel in a new administrative setup appears achievable, a point carefully being navigated by various heads of state. #### Looking AheadIn upcoming Cairo talks, involving official participation from Abbas, plans may solidify further. This occasion could afford a chance for the Palestinian leader to reaffirm his position amidst suggestions from Arab and international diplomats that an altered Palestinian Authority landscape could emerge in response to unprecedented exterior pressures from both Israel and the United States.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.
