Rebuilding Gaza: A Complex Challenge Amid Destruction and Political Strife

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Rebuilding Gaza after the recent conflict poses an immense challenge, with estimates indicating that two-thirds of the region's buildings have been either damaged or destroyed. According to reports from UN-Habitat and the UN Environment Programme, there are approximately 50 million tons of rubble in Gaza, which would take up to 20 years and cost around $909 million to dispose of. Previous reconstruction efforts, such as following the 2014 war, faced severe operational hurdles, hindered by Israel’s restrictions on building materials, which have been a component of its blockade since 2007.

The political landscape complicates the situation further, as the involvement of Hamas raises concerns about resource distribution. Experts suggest that while a lengthy rebuilding process could be necessary, political stability is crucial for effective recovery efforts. Additionally, critical infrastructure, particularly water and sanitation systems, has sustained severe damage, exacerbating the plight of up to one million displaced Palestinians. Given the scale of destruction and the political complexities, many experts are calling for a significant international aid plan, reminiscent of the Marshall Plan after World War II.

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