A UN agency has estimated that the reconstruction of the war-torn region will require an unprecedented $30 billion to $40 billion investment. Abdallah al-Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General, emphasized the enormity of the task, comparing it to the reconstruction efforts following World War II.
“The United Nations Development Programme’s initial estimates for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip surpass $30 billion and could reach up to $40 billion,” stated al-Dardari.
The recent conflict, which lasted for 11 days, resulted in extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses across Gaza. Thousands of Palestinians have been displaced, and essential services, including water and electricity, have been severely disrupted.
The UN’s assessment underscores the urgent need for international assistance to support Gaza’s recovery. However, the reconstruction efforts face significant challenges, including political tensions and ongoing security concerns in the region.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which ended with a ceasefire on May 21st, left over 250 people dead in Gaza, including 66 children, and 13 dead in Israel. Both sides have faced international scrutiny for their actions during the conflict, with calls for accountability and efforts to restart peace talks.
The UN’s call for substantial financial support comes as humanitarian organizations continue to provide emergency aid to those affected by the conflict. The reconstruction of Gaza will be a long and arduous process, requiring not only financial resources but also a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that have fueled decades of conflict in the region.