DayofPal—Israeli officials are reportedly seeking ways to profit from Gaza’s reconstruction, according to Haaretz.
Discussions between senior finance ministry and military officials have included the construction of an Israeli highway connecting to Gaza, with funding potentially provided by countries seeking access through Israel.
The proposed highway along southern Route 232 would improve travel between Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Officials are also exploring supplying electricity to Gaza from Israel, as donor countries debate whether to build a power plant in Egypt or within Gaza itself.
This would happen in exchange for expanding Israel’s Ashkelon power plant, the report said.
At least six working groups have been established at an international civil-military coordination center in Kiryat Gat, southern occupied territories, with representatives from 28 countries involved in stabilization, security, intelligence, humanitarian, and engineering efforts. Each team includes an Israeli representative.
The UN has warned that Gaza’s reconstruction could cost $70 billion over the coming decades and highlighted the economic collapse in the Palestinian territories, where GDP per capita has fallen to $161.
A UNCTAD report described the Israeli bombardment as creating a “human-made abyss,” with the economy contracting by 87% between 2023 and 2024.
Recently, Jared Kushner unveiled plans to develop Gaza into a free-market hub, including skyscrapers and business districts, prompting criticism that the plan seeks to erase Palestinian heritage while allowing investors to profit.
Meanwhile, Israel has also approved UAE-funded housing for 25,000 people in a new Rafah neighborhood. The move was deemed an initial step towards Gaza population ethnic cleansing.
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