Palestinian president receives Gaza early reconstruction plan

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa has handed over a plan for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip to the country's President and head of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) Mahmoud Abbas.

The plan, titled the Gaza Relief, Early Recovery and Emergency Response Plan, outlines the first phase of the Palestinian government's response to the devastation caused by the Israeli troops, Caliber.Az reports, citing Palestinian news sources.

The handover took place during a meeting between President Abbas and Prime Minister Mustafa at the presidential headquarters in Ramallah on January 19.

Mustafa emphasized that the plan addresses emergency measures for Gaza in the six months following the cessation of hostilities.

The initiative, developed in coordination with international and UN agencies, is designed to secure maximum international support for its implementation, with the aim of addressing the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The reconstruction plan focuses on several key priorities, including the removal of rubble from main roads and vital institutions such as hospitals, the restoration of essential services like water, electricity, telecommunications, and sanitation, and the provision of temporary shelter for families whose homes have been destroyed.

Additionally, the plan seeks to ensure that children's education continues despite the widespread disruption.

Prime Minister Mustafa also highlighted the importance of enhanced coordination with international relief organizations to expedite aid and provide the necessary support to the affected Palestinian population.

It is important to note that the new ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has halted 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza, during which over 46,000 Palestinians lost their lives, and approximately 1.9 million residents were displaced. The scale of destruction is unprecedented, with more than 70% of housing destroyed and critical infrastructure, including hospitals and water distribution networks, rendered unusable. 

The United Nations estimates that the reconstruction of Gaza will require up to $50 billion and could take up to 15 years. This assessment underscores the immense challenges ahead, including the removal of approximately 37 million tonnes of debris and the restoration of essential services.

International responses have been swift. Indonesia has expressed its readiness to assist in Gaza's reconstruction, emphasizing its commitment to supporting Palestinian recovery and independence. Similarly, Qatar and Egypt have pledged substantial financial support, with Qatar committing $500 million for rebuilding residential units and Egypt allocating $500 million for infrastructure and street repairs.  

By Khagan Isayev