This plan has been met with criticism from Israel and the United States, highlighting the tensions surrounding the future of Gaza.
European Powers Endorse Ambitious $53 Billion Plan for Gaza's Reconstruction
European Powers Endorse Ambitious $53 Billion Plan for Gaza's Reconstruction
European leaders express support for an Egyptian-led initiative aimed at rebuilding Gaza without displacing its residents.
With over 90% of homes in Gaza damaged or destroyed, leading EU nations have rallied behind an Arab-led initiative proposing a comprehensive $53 billion reconstruction plan. This blueprint, primarily crafted by Egypt and championed by Arab states, seeks to ensure that Palestinians are not displaced from their homeland during the recovery process. In stark contrast, the plan has met significant opposition from Israel and U.S. President Donald Trump, who put forward an alternate vision to transform Gaza into a lavish "Middle East Riviera."
On Saturday, the foreign ministers from France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement characterizing the proposal as "realistic." They acknowledged the necessity for urgent action, citing the plan's potential to deliver "swift and sustainable improvement" to the dire living conditions faced by gazans. It recommends a governance model led by a group of independent experts, alongside international peacekeepers stationed in the area to provide oversight on humanitarian aid and administration, working under the Palestinian Authority’s guidance.
This initiative contrasts sharply with Trump’s notion of a U.S.-led intervention to settle the region’s population. The plan received endorsements from both the Palestinian Authority and Hamas during an Arab League summit held for emergency discussions. However, the White House and Israeli officials dismissed it as unfeasible, arguing it overlooks the complex realities on the ground. “Residents cannot humanely live in a territory covered in debris and unexploded ordnance," voiced Brian Hughes, a spokesperson for the National Security Council.
The European nations’ statement emphasized their commitment to collaborating with the Arab initiative while delivering a critical reminder that Hamas must not wield governmental authority over Gaza nor threaten Israel’s security. They expressed strong support for resuming the Palestinian Authority’s essential role in governance and implementing necessary reforms.
Amid fears that the ceasefire deal in Gaza could deteriorate as its first phase approaches expiration, tensions have escalated. Israel’s blockade on aid as a means to compel Hamas into accepting a new U.S. proposal has deepened the crisis. Meanwhile, Hamas advocates for a swift transition to the next phase of ceasefire negotiations to conclude hostilities and facilitate an Israeli troop withdrawal.
The devastation in Gaza is palpable, with an astounding 2.3 million residents reported to have evacuated their homes amidst hostilities. Following Hamas's attack in October 2023, which resulted in substantial casualties and hostages, Israel's military actions have significantly impacted Gaza's infrastructure. Current reports from Hamas-run health authorities indicate the tragic death toll has surged to over 48,000 Palestinians, underscoring the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict.
On Saturday, the foreign ministers from France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement characterizing the proposal as "realistic." They acknowledged the necessity for urgent action, citing the plan's potential to deliver "swift and sustainable improvement" to the dire living conditions faced by gazans. It recommends a governance model led by a group of independent experts, alongside international peacekeepers stationed in the area to provide oversight on humanitarian aid and administration, working under the Palestinian Authority’s guidance.
This initiative contrasts sharply with Trump’s notion of a U.S.-led intervention to settle the region’s population. The plan received endorsements from both the Palestinian Authority and Hamas during an Arab League summit held for emergency discussions. However, the White House and Israeli officials dismissed it as unfeasible, arguing it overlooks the complex realities on the ground. “Residents cannot humanely live in a territory covered in debris and unexploded ordnance," voiced Brian Hughes, a spokesperson for the National Security Council.
The European nations’ statement emphasized their commitment to collaborating with the Arab initiative while delivering a critical reminder that Hamas must not wield governmental authority over Gaza nor threaten Israel’s security. They expressed strong support for resuming the Palestinian Authority’s essential role in governance and implementing necessary reforms.
Amid fears that the ceasefire deal in Gaza could deteriorate as its first phase approaches expiration, tensions have escalated. Israel’s blockade on aid as a means to compel Hamas into accepting a new U.S. proposal has deepened the crisis. Meanwhile, Hamas advocates for a swift transition to the next phase of ceasefire negotiations to conclude hostilities and facilitate an Israeli troop withdrawal.
The devastation in Gaza is palpable, with an astounding 2.3 million residents reported to have evacuated their homes amidst hostilities. Following Hamas's attack in October 2023, which resulted in substantial casualties and hostages, Israel's military actions have significantly impacted Gaza's infrastructure. Current reports from Hamas-run health authorities indicate the tragic death toll has surged to over 48,000 Palestinians, underscoring the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict.
