Khaberni - Prime Minister Dr. Muhammad Mustafa confirmed that the executive program of the Arab recovery and reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip, in cooperation with Arab brothers and international partners, includes 56 sub-programs across 18 sectors, including housing, social services, infrastructure, economy, and governance.
Mustafa indicated that the recovery and reconstruction process of the sector, according to estimates, needs about 67 billion dollars to implement projects and programs for various sectors including infrastructure, governance, and public services. This program will be implemented through the related Palestinian ministries and institutions, in cooperation with international partners, in several stages. The first stage includes the early recovery process and requires 3.5 billion dollars for a duration of six months, while the second stage focuses on reconstruction and revitalization of vital sectors for a duration of three years and needs 30 billion dollars, whereas the third stage represents the phase of completing comprehensive reconstruction and extends for several years.
This was during an expanded meeting that included about 100 personalities representing international and UN institutions and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the State of Palestine, along with several specialized ministers, to enhance joint coordination and update them on the recovery and reconstruction plan of the Gaza Strip, today, Thursday, at his office in Ramallah.
The Prime Minister called on the international community to support the reconstruction plan in a way that ensures not only reconstruction but also the restoration of hope, dignity, and stability to our people.
Mustafa addressed his message to the international community that the reconstruction of Gaza should be led by Palestinians, supported by Arabs, and backed internationally, to ensure not only the rebuilding of Gaza but also restoring hope, dignity, and stability for the people.
Mustafa said: "After more than two years of destructive war, the Gaza Strip has suffered extensive destruction, mass displacement, and profound humanitarian suffering. Nevertheless, the government of the State of Palestine remains firm in its determination to lead a fully Palestinian-owned national recovery and reconstruction process that restores dignity and hope to our resilient people."
Mustafa clarified that the Palestinian vision is to rebuild Gaza as an unblockaded, connected, and prosperous part of Palestine, in line with relevant United Nations resolutions and the New York Declaration.
The Prime Minister stated that the first phase would begin after ceasefire arrangements are established and the necessary security and financial supplies are provided. The government will launch a six-month early recovery plan focusing on: debris removal, rehabilitation of essential infrastructure, provision of temporary housing, cash assistance and "cash-for-work" programs, supporting small projects and agriculture to revive livelihoods, reactivating the banking system, providing psychological and social support, educational and health services, and supporting people with special needs, including rehabilitation programs and providing assistive tools.
He said: "A Conference for the Reconstruction of the Gaza Strip will be held in the Arab Republic of Egypt, which will serve as a main platform for mobilizing resources and building partnerships."
Mustafa added: "Key sectors such as health, education, water and sanitation, land and civil registration, public finance, and taxes, among others, are based on a unified system in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. These systems, which are well-regarded by international partners, should be empowered and enhanced, not replaced by parallel or temporary structures that will not be able to maintain effective and real service delivery on the ground."
He continued: "The reconstruction process will be conducted in a manner consistent with the ongoing institutional reform and development program, which focuses on transparency, accountability, and enhancing institutional performance, supported by international partners. These efforts will also contribute to enhancing political and geographical unity between Gaza and the West Bank."
Mustafa emphasized that security and governance in Gaza must be under national reference and leadership, closely linked to national institutions, and in compliance with international law. At the same time, the State of Palestine remains open to support and assistance from Arab and international partners to support stability and protect civilians, including, when necessary, through a temporary and clearly defined international or regional presence, under a Security Council mandate, implemented in coordination with the State of Palestine. These arrangements should be time-limited and fully subject to Palestinian sovereignty and its legitimate authority.
