The U.S.-backed Board of Peace on Wednesday unveiled a $2.45 billion, six-month plan to begin reconstruction and governance in Gaza, outlining 66 projects including temporary housing, infrastructure repairs, and health initiatives. The proposal was presented during a meeting of the board’s governors in New York, held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
The plan, designed to support President Donald Trump’s 20-point ceasefire proposal, includes budgeting for temporary housing, rubble removal, hospital repairs, and the deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF). Officials acknowledged enormous hurdles ahead, including stalled ceasefire implementation and ongoing military control of parts of Gaza.
Core Facts of the Plan
- Total funding: $2.45 billion allocated for the initial six-month phase.
- Scope: 66 projects covering temporary housing, infrastructure, education, and health initiatives.
- Timeline: Six-month implementation window, with medium-term reconstruction costs estimated at $35.2 billion and long-term costs projected at $71.4 billion over a decade.
Context and Background
The Board of Peace’s proposal follows the October 10, 2023, ceasefire that halted heavy fighting between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire was intended to facilitate broader reconstruction efforts, including Israeli military withdrawals, Hamas disarmament, and the establishment of an international peacekeeping force. However, reconstruction has not yet begun, and Israel continues to occupy approximately 60% of Gaza, according to reports.
Key Challenges Ahead
Officials noted political sensitivities in Israel ahead of elections, complicating negotiations. Nickolay Mladenov, the Board of Peace’s high representative for Gaza, emphasized the need for international backing but acknowledged difficulties in securing cooperation from all parties.
International Reactions
The announcement comes as global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, have publicly called for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Board of Peace’s plan is largely aimed at potential donors, who would be asked to fund the reconstruction efforts.
Governance and Implementation
The proposal was developed in collaboration with the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) over the past year. A Board of Peace official described the plan as a roadmap to "stand up a government from nothing, an economy from shambles, and a territory from disaster."
Long-Term Reconstruction Costs
The Board of Peace estimates that full reconstruction will require $35.2 billion in the medium term and $71.4 billion over the next decade, reflecting the extensive damage caused by the conflict. The initial $2.45 billion plan is intended as a first step toward stabilizing the region while broader governance and security frameworks are established.