EXPERTS SAY REBUILDING GAZA COULD TAKE DECADES AND COST $70 BILLION. (PHOTO).

 Experts say rebuilding Gaza could take decades and cost $70 billion

With a fragile ceasefire now in place between Israel and Hamas, the enormous task of rebuilding the Gaza Strip is coming into focus — and experts warn it could take decades and cost as much as $70 billion. The destruction across Gaza has been described as unprecedented, with entire neighborhoods leveled and infrastructure obliterated after two years of fighting. United Nations officials said more than 81,000 tons of debris have already been cleared, but it remains uncertain when full-scale reconstruction will begin or who will bear the financial burden. Former U.S. representative for Palestinian affairs Hady Amr described the devastation as incomparable in modern times, noting that roughly 83% of buildings in Gaza City alone were damaged, and nearly half of them were completely destroyed.

Schools, hospitals, and essential services such as water and electricity systems have been decimated, leaving many Palestinians struggling to survive even as rebuilding plans take shape. Human rights groups have heavily criticized Israel’s actions, and a recent resolution by the International Association of Genocide Scholars stated that Israel’s actions meet the legal definition of genocide — an accusation Israel firmly rejects. As part of the ceasefire, Israel agreed to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, including supplies to restore water and power systems, reopen hospitals, and clear debris from roadways. UN officials said the initial phase will focus on restoring essential services and ensuring the safe removal of unexploded ordnance before reconstruction begins.

The next major hurdle is securing funding and establishing a safe environment for rebuilding. Experts say the scope of the effort is staggering, not just because of the physical damage but also the human cost — with many victims still buried beneath the rubble. In addition to massive engineering efforts, humanitarian groups will need to expand food distribution, medical care, and temporary shelter programs for displaced residents. The United Nations, European Union, and World Bank jointly estimate the total cost of rebuilding at about $70 billion. Several nations, including Canada and members of the European Union, have indicated a willingness to contribute, and wealthy Gulf countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are expected to play a key role. However, regional analysts caution that most donors are unlikely to commit substantial funding unless meaningful progress is made toward Palestinian statehood and lasting peace in the region.