Trump's Board of Peace Unveils $2.45 Billion Gaza Recovery Plan

President Trump’s Board of Peace announced a $2.45 billion, six-month recovery plan for the Gaza Strip, marking the first phase of a larger reconstruction effort. The plan, detailed on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, includes 66 programs aimed at improving infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and establishing an international security force. The total estimated cost for the complete reconstruction of Gaza is $71 billion.

According to a summary provided by Ali Shaath, chief commissioner of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, the recovery will be led by Palestinians in partnership with various stakeholders, including central and local authorities, the private sector, civil society, and affected communities. Shaath emphasized that each program has undergone assessment and costing, with a request for political support, the removal of obstacles, and pooled resources.

The initial phase of funding will support humanitarian shelters, debris removal, hospital rehabilitation, and the construction of desalination plants. Jared Kushner, U.S. special envoy and President Trump's son-in-law, described the initiative as akin to building a large startup, driven by a passion for peace and progress. He highlighted the establishment of previously non-existent entities like the International Stabilization Force and a national committee for Gaza.

The conflict, ongoing for nearly three years, has caused an estimated $35.2 billion in damage to Gaza, according to former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who is also a member of the Board of Peace. Blair outlined a four-point framework for Gaza's future: liberation from Hamas control with a new Palestinian-led interim government, full demilitarization with a new security apparatus, a comprehensive reconstruction program, and addressing Palestinian aspirations for self-government while ensuring Israel's security.

More than 25 countries and 75 organizations are expected to contribute to Gaza's reconstruction. Approximately $18 billion in funding commitments has already been secured through donations and private equity.

Before reconstruction can commence, an International Stability Force of up to 250,000 members will deploy sector by sector to oversee the phased demilitarization and decommissioning of Hamas' weapons. U.S. Army Gen. Jasper Jeffers, commander of the ISF, stated that 19,000 applicants have been vetted and begun training for a Gazan police force, out of over 250,000 applicants. He described the task of dismantling Gaza's military infrastructure, including extensive tunnel networks, as unprecedented in its complexity. The plan involves neutralizing all weapons, tunnels, and related facilities, after which the national committee and its security forces will assume control, facilitating the withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces.