The Arab League endorsed Egypt’s $53 billion Gaza reconstruction plan during a summit in Cairo. The initiative includes a six-month recovery phase costing $3 billion, followed by the construction of 400,000 housing units by 2030. Leaders from the UN and EU have expressed strong support, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and regional backing.
Leaders from the Arab League convened in Cairo to endorse Egypt’s reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip, valued at $53 billion. This comprehensive strategy aims to rebuild the war-ravaged region, beginning with a six-month recovery phase dedicated to debris clearance and temporary housing establishment, projected to cost around $3 billion.
The initial phase includes the construction of 200,000 housing units within the next two years, followed by an additional 200,000 units. By 2030, the plan anticipates the establishment of hundreds of thousands of new homes for up to 3 million residents, along with the development of an airport, industrial zones, hotels, and recreational parks.
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi emphasized the importance of an “independent” Palestinian entity overseeing Gaza’s reconstruction efforts, with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressing willingness to participate. El-Sisi urged support from the international community for this initiative, which has garnered backing from both the United Nations and the European Union.
At the Cairo summit, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated, “The UN is prepared to cooperate in this effort fully,” indicating strong endorsement of the Arab-led reconstruction plan. EU Council President Antonio Costa hailed the proposals as providing hope for millions of Palestinians across various regions, emphasizing the dire need to alleviate the suffering witnessed over the past year and a half.
Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa also voiced strong support for Egypt’s initiative, advocating for regional collaboration to bolster diplomatic ties and safeguard national interests. In attendance was Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking a significant moment following his rise to leadership.
Key financing for this ambitious reconstruction effort hinges on substantial involvement from affluent Gulf states, particularly the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, both of which do not support Hamas. The exact extent of Gaza’s devastation is still being assessed; however, preliminary assessments by the UN indicate that approximately 70% of all structures in the region have experienced damage or destruction, affecting over 245,000 homes.
In summary, the Arab League’s backing of Egypt’s $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza marks a pivotal step in addressing the region’s devastating aftermath. With significant phases aimed at housing and infrastructure development and support from international figures, the initiative seeks to restore hope and stability for millions of affected Palestinians. Future financing from Gulf states will be critical for the plan’s success.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
