A comprehensive assessment by the United Nations, European Union, and World Bank has determined that reconstructing Gaza will necessitate at least $53.2 billion over the next decade. 

This estimate follows 15 months of extensive destruction caused by Israel’s military campaign.

As Arab nations seek viable rebuilding strategies, the report highlights the urgency of avoiding mass displacement of Gaza’s two million residents, a proposal previously suggested by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Gaza & West Bank Interim Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (IRDNA), released on Tuesday, revealed that damages between October 2023 and October 2024 amounted to $49 billion. To facilitate recovery, approximately $20 billion is required within the first three years.

“Reconstruction will demand a broad coalition of donors, diverse financing solutions, private sector involvement, and enhanced material delivery to Gaza post-conflict,” the report states.

Housing suffered the greatest losses, with 292,000 homes damaged or destroyed—accounting for 53% of the total destruction. 

An estimated $29.9 billion is needed for rebuilding key infrastructure, while $19.1 billion is required to restore vital sectors such as healthcare, education, commerce, and industry.

With 95% of Gaza’s hospitals now non-functional and the local economy contracting by 83%, the devastation is unprecedented. The IRDNA follows an April 2024 assessment that initially estimated $18.5 billion in damages after four months of conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera

BDST: 1054 HRS, FEB 19, 2025
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