A group of influential individuals from institutions across the Middle East, Europe, and the United States gathered in London to plan for the reconstruction and long-term economic development of Gaza. Despite the ongoing devastation in Gaza due to Israeli military bombardment in response to Hamas attacks, the group envisioned transforming the territory into a Mediterranean commercial hub focused on trade, tourism, and innovation. The plan, known as Palestine Emerging, was the result of the meeting, aiming to connect Gaza to the world over the long term.
The plan, which included a deepwater port, desalination plant, online health care service, and a transportation corridor, required substantial investment and the cooperation of the authority eventually controlling Gaza. American government agencies and major international funding organizations like the World Bank showed interest in the initiative, viewing it as a useful contribution towards generating jobs in Gaza. The focus was on the rebuilding that would unfold over the following decades, even though delivering food, water, healthcare, and emergency shelter remained the most pressing needs for Gaza’s residents.
The challenge of securing funding for reconstruction loomed large, with the estimated cost of the damage to Gaza’s infrastructure reaching $18.5 billion. The unemployment rate in the territory was over 45 percent, with more than half the population living in poverty. While the plan faced obstacles such as resistance from Israel’s Prime Minister and the uncertainty of future governance in Gaza, it sought to address long-term development needs beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis.
The group behind the initiative, led by individuals like Chris Choa from Outcomist and Baron Frankal from the Portland Trust, has held meetings in London, Washington, and Ramallah to discuss the comprehensive plan for Gaza’s future. The focus on rebuilding and development included ambitious projects like a cutting-edge soccer stadium, a Technical University of Reconstruction, and strategies to encourage a Palestinian film industry. Despite challenges such as legal restrictions on working with the Palestinian Authority and concerns about corruption, private companies were seen as critical partners in the plan.
The group acknowledged the need for a multifaceted approach that combines immediate humanitarian aid with long-term development initiatives. While the prospect of investing billions of dollars in a politically uncertain environment may deter some, participants believed that preparing for a more prosperous future was essential, even in the midst of ongoing conflict. By envisioning transformative projects and engaging with international partners, the group hoped to pave the way for a brighter future for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, emphasizing the importance of economic opportunity in undercutting support for Hamas.
