Board of Peace proposes six-month $2.4bn plan for Gaza reconstruction

On Wednesday, the US-backed Board of Peace unveiled a six-month $2.45 billion plan to initiate Gaza reconstruction and restore essential services amidst ongoing challenges to implementing President Donald Trump's ceasefire proposal. The board's blueprint consists of 66 projects focusing on infrastructure, education, and healthcare, aligning with Mr Trump's 20-point plan to end the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The first phase will address Gaza's most pressing needs and set the stage for extended reconstruction and eventual governance.

Board member Jared Kushner emphasized that the initiative aims to empower Gaza's population to enhance their livelihoods and overall well-being. He acknowledged a $35.2 billion cost in the medium term and $71.4 billion over the next decade for rebuilding infrastructure, stating that this was a task previously unseen. Kushner emphasized that Hamas had agreed to disarm but underscored the necessity of following through on this commitment.

The six-month plan primarily targets potential international donors, seeking financing for the first projects and seeking to generate support for a broader reconstruction effort. High Representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, acknowledged the transition from planning to implementation, noting ongoing difficulties in negotiations with Israel amid the country's election campaign. He stressed the ultimate aspiration of a demilitarized Gaza under civilian control, facilitating reconstruction and Israeli withdrawal.

Ali Shaath, chief commissioner of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, stated that the plan would eventually encompass the entire 365-square-kilometre Gaza Strip, as opposed to the current division by military lines. The committee seeks to restore basic services and empower Palestinians to determine their own future, rejecting any displacement of residents within Gaza.