The ongoing efforts to rebuild Gaza are set to be a focal point on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, as representatives from numerous countries gather on September 23. This meeting, hosted by the Board of Peace, aims to address the challenges and progress in the reconstruction of Gaza under a plan initiated during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Central to the discussions will be the complex issue of disarming Hamas and other armed factions in Gaza, a process that has been a significant hurdle in moving forward with reconstruction efforts. The Board of Peace has been advocating for progress on this front, yet disagreements, particularly with Israel, have stalled initiatives. Israeli cooperation is crucial for advancing both governance and rebuilding efforts in the region.
Key stakeholders, including members of the Board of Peace, international mediators, and representatives from several United Nations agencies and the European Union, will convene to explore collaborative opportunities. They will review the current status of negotiations and discuss priorities for the upcoming phases of Gaza’s reconstruction.
A committee of Palestinian technocrats is expected to present detailed plans for 71 projects envisioned for the first six months of operations. However, without resolving the disarmament issue, no specific start date for these projects has been established. This impasse continues to hinder the broader reconstruction initiative.
The meeting also aims to update participants on governance and humanitarian projects, seeking to align international efforts with the needs on the ground in Gaza. As the international community gathers, the hope remains that dialogue will pave the way for tangible progress in rebuilding Gaza and stabilizing the region.