Reviving Gaza: The Road to Reconstruction

The rebuilding of Gaza is a pressing issue that has prompted discussions among various leaders in the Arab world. The Arab League has come forward with a comprehensive plan aimed at restoring the enclave, but there are significant challenges ahead.

Recently, an Emergency Arab League Summit held in Cairo saw participants unanimously supporting Egypt's initiative for Gaza's reconstruction. This plan is vital after the severe destruction caused by ongoing military conflicts, particularly with Israel.

In early March, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi announced a $53 billion (€50.5 billion) recovery program spanning five years. A crucial element of this initiative is the commitment to keeping Gaza's current population in place, avoiding any forced displacements.

This approach significantly differs from a previous plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump, which aimed to transform Gaza into a luxury destination by resettling its residents into neighboring 'friendly' Arab nations. Many Arab leaders opposed this idea, criticizing it for undermining Palestinian rights.

President el-Sisi highlighted during the summit that true peace in the region cannot be realized without establishing a fully sovereign Palestinian state. He expressed optimism about the possibility of the United States contributing to future conflict resolution. He stated, “Peace cannot be imposed by force. It must be built on justice and the rights of nations.”

The reconstruction needs of Gaza are significant. Reports indicate that the total damage from conflicts amounts to $29.9 billion, while the social and economic losses are estimated at $19.1 billion. The housing sector, in particular, has suffered tremendously, with damages reaching $15.8 billion. This sector alone constitutes 53% of the total destruction, leaving tens of thousands of homes in ruins.

Satellite images confirm the extent of the devastation. Nearly 1,190 kilometers of roads have been damaged, with a substantial number severely affected. The healthcare sector reports $1.3 billion in damages and $6.3 billion in losses, with multiple hospitals completely destroyed. Education has faced similar troubles, with around 88% of schools affected, many turned into shelters for displaced families.

The Arab League's reconstruction plan outlines that a total of $53 billion will be essential for the full restoration of Gaza, requiring substantial investment across various sectors, including healthcare, housing, and infrastructure. The first phase focuses on immediate recovery efforts and providing temporary housing for those displaced by the conflict.

In the second phase, expected to last two years, the plan includes building new homes and restoring agricultural land. In the final phase, the goal is to further develop the infrastructure and create job opportunities for the population.

The initiative aims not just for immediate reconstruction but also for long-term development, preparing for a population that could reach approximately 3 million by 2030. Significantly, the plan stresses the importance of respecting the rights of Palestinians and upholding the two-state solution.

To manage the reconstruction, a temporary administrative committee is proposed, with plans for the Palestinian National Authority to regain governance over Gaza. International support and training for local police forces are part of the discussions for ensuring stability in the area.

However, the success of the plan faces hurdles, notably from opposition by Israel and the US. The current political context, dominated by disagreements over governance and conflict resolution approaches, raises concerns about the feasibility of implementing such a grand vision for Gaza's future.

While the Arab League's plan is well-intentioned and structured, its success hinges on overcoming these deep-rooted political challenges, particularly the need for a unified Palestinian leadership and addressing the internal divisions between various factions.

Even though the international community, including ministers from major European countries, has voiced support for this initiative, the concerns posed by both Israel and the US could ultimately undermine these efforts. If a balance cannot be found, this plan might end up as another unfulfilled promise, much like previous initiatives.

As tensions continue, the fragile stability of the region remains a significant concern, affecting not only the immediate stakeholders but also the broader geopolitical landscape. The hope is that, with time and the right political will, the suffering of civilians in Gaza can be alleviated, leading to a more stable and peaceful future.

Gaza, reconstruction, peace