The US has unveiled its plans for a 'New Gaza' that would see the devastated Palestinian territory rebuilt from scratch. Slides showed dozens of skyscrapers stretching along the Mediterranean coast and housing estates in the Rafah area, while a map outlining the phased development of new residential, agricultural and industrial areas for the 2.1 million population was presented during a signing ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
'We're going to be very successful in Gaza. It's going to be a great thing to watch,' Trump declared during the presentation. He emphasized the potential of the location and the possibility of creating a thriving community.
A 'Master Plan' map indicated that new developments would include industrial complexes, parks, and a focus on tourism, with new transport links proposed to enhance connectivity. Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, indicated that reconstruction could begin imminently.
However, the initiative is shadowed by ongoing humanitarian crises in the region, with the UN estimating that over 80% of Gaza's structures have been destroyed or damaged. Kushner stated that security would be paramount for attracting investment, hinting at tensions with Hamas regarding demilitarization efforts as part of the peace plan.
The contrasting perspectives on reconstruction plans highlight the complex geopolitical situation, leaving many to wonder whether the ambitious vision for 'New Gaza' can be realized amid continued conflict.
