Peace Board Proposes Billion-Dollar Plan for Gaza Reconstruction
The US-backed Peace Board has announced six-month projects in Gaza following setbacks to the comprehensive ceasefire plan.
During a meeting held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the US-backed Peace Board unveiled a $2.45 billion, six-month draft aimed at initiating reconstruction and governance in Gaza.
Meeting in New York and Project Draft
The US-backed Peace Board is proposing a six-month plan to initiate reconstruction and governance in Gaza as efforts continue to sustain President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan.
During the board meeting in New York, leaders acknowledged major hurdles to be overcome and introduced a draft consisting of 66 projects to kickstart the process.
Reconstruction Costs and Donors
The board stated that physical damage in Gaza will cost approximately $35.2 billion in the medium term, with an additional $71.4 billion over the next 10 years.
The proposal aims to have potential donors, who remain skeptical due to past failed peace initiatives, shoulder the costs.
Ceasefire Status and Developments on the Ground
The ceasefire that went into effect in October was intended to pave the way for Gaza's reconstruction process under the guidance of the Peace Board.
However, the Israeli military has expanded its control in Gaza, occupying 60% of the territory, while Hamas has not laid down its weapons and international forces have not yet entered the region.
Military Elements and Disarmament Steps
High Representative of the Board Nickolay Mladenov stated that progress depends on Hamas laying down its weapons, while also calling on Israel to scale back its military operations.
US General Jasper Jeffers, commander of the international stabilization force, outlined a five-step disarmament approach that will begin with the participation of troops from Kosovo and Morocco.
Outlook for the Future
US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff stated that the ceasefire has not been an absolute success, but that the board has made real progress.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that this is a long-term project and that if everyone does their part, it will offer hope for the future.