Trump's 'Council for Peace' Proposes $2.45 Billion Gaza Reconstruction Plan

The 'Council for Peace,' an organization established by former U.S. President Donald Trump, is set to unveil the first phase of a reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, September 23rd. The initiative, valued at $2.45 billion, is designed to span six months and encompasses 66 distinct projects.

Approximately $1 billion is earmarked for infrastructure restoration. This includes $400 million for temporary housing, $275 million for debris removal and unexploded ordnance disposal, and $50 million for hospitals. An additional $885 million is allocated for security-related initiatives, such as the deployment of international stabilization forces and the establishment of a Palestinian police force.

The plan also addresses the restoration of water and electricity systems, roads, and border crossings, alongside measures aimed at economic revitalization. The authors of the plan estimate the physical damage in Gaza at $35.2 billion, with a full decade-long reconstruction effort requiring approximately $71.4 billion.

Successful implementation of the program hinges on cooperation between Israel and Hamas. According to Axios, the 'Council for Peace' is linking the commencement of large-scale reconstruction to the disarmament of Hamas. The report also notes that the 'Council for Peace' has not yet secured the full funding required for this initial phase.