Board of Peace unveils Gaza reconstruction plan contingent on Hamas disarmament

A Cypriot-Israeli businessman unveiled an ambitious Gaza reconstruction plan Thursday at the inaugural meeting of the US-led Board of Peace in Washington, DC, emphasizing that the project's success hinges entirely on the full disarmament of the Palestinian group Hamas. Yakir Gabay presented a comprehensive vision for rebuilding the devastated enclave for future generations.

Massive Cleanup and Infrastructure

The initiative begins with the removal of 70 million tons of rubble, unexploded ordnance, and hundreds of miles of underground tunnels. Gabay stated the plan will provide fast temporary housing while simultaneously initiating construction of permanent homes and essential infrastructure. The master plan encompasses modern schools, hospitals, manufacturing and agriculture sectors, transportation networks including roads and trains, and water and energy plants—all destroyed during Israel's attacks since October 2023.

Economic Revival and International Participation

"We line up many regional contractors who build housing for millions of people in the Middle East; they will join the massive redevelopment with competitive pricing," Gabay said, confirming necessary funding is already secured. He emphasized that the local population will actively build their own cities, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and reviving the devastated economy. "The Gaza coastline is 26 miles long. It can be developed as a new Mediterranean Riviera with 200 hotels and potential islands. The value goes to the Gazans through the Gaza sovereign fund," he added.

Political Context

The reconstruction vision comes as Gazans observe Ramadan amid widespread destruction following Israel's two-year war, which killed over 72,000 Palestinians and destroyed approximately 90% of civilian infrastructure. A US-backed ceasefire has been in place since Oct. 10.