War-Torn Gaza Faces Massive Multi-Billion Dollar Reconstruction Challenge

The Gaza Strip now has an unprecedented task of rebuilding its shattered areas, which will cost billions of dollars in the aftermath of the terrible war between Israel and Hamas. This war, in retaliation for the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas against Israel, has left Gaza in ruins, many global organizations say, adding that rebuilding may take decades.

Gaza's Future and Reconstruction Costs

U.S. President Donald Trump has said that Gaza could become "The Riviera of the Middle East" under U.S. ownership after the permanent resettlement of Palestinians. But on the ground, the reality is grim, with the United Nations estimating an enormous financial and logistical effort will be needed to rebuild the enclave.

Casualty Toll and Human Impact

1,200 killed in the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel, so Israel reports.
In response, Israel unleashed an all-out military assault, which the Gaza health ministry reports has killed over 47,000 people.

The Scale of Destruction

The war has left Gaza reduced to rubble, whole neighborhoods flattened, and critical infrastructures destroyed. A UN damage assessment last month highlighted the extent of such catastrophe:

Over 50 million tonnes of rubble are left behind following the bombardment by Israel.
Clearing the debris could take 21 years and cost up to $1.2 billion.
The rubble might be contaminated with asbestos, which is very hazardous to health.
An estimated 10,000 bodies remain buried under the wreckage, per Gaza's Ministry of Health.
According to an estimate by the UNDP, Gaza development has been knocked back 69 years on account of war.

The Road Ahead to Gaza's Rebuilding

The rebuilding of Gaza will take cooperation at the international level, enormous financial aid, and commitment in the long term. Yet, with ongoing geopolitical tensions and the region's future so uncertain, the road to recovery is unclear.

Keep up to date with the latest on efforts to rebuild Gaza.