Key facts
- The US has presented a proposal to Israel allowing Gaza reconstruction to proceed even if Hamas does not disarm.
- The proposal reportedly seeks Israel's written approval.
- Washington is reportedly seeking to implement President Donald Trump's post-war plan for Gaza.
- A Board of Peace report identified Hamas' refusal to disarm as the primary obstacle to Gaza's reconstruction.
- The Board of Peace report indicated that $30 billion is required for reconstruction and could generate 250,000 jobs.
- A previous proposal by President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu included a ceasefire, hostage release, and Israeli withdrawal.
The United States has reportedly presented Israel with a proposal that would permit the reconstruction of Gaza to commence even if Hamas does not disarm. This initiative, detailed by Al Jazeera citing the Israeli Broadcasting Authority, is seen as an effort to advance President Donald Trump's post-war strategy for the region and potentially avoid a renewed conflict.
According to the report, Washington is seeking Israel's formal written approval for this plan, which reportedly includes allowing major infrastructure projects such as water and electricity networks. Neither the US nor Israeli governments have officially commented on the report.
A separate report from the Board of Peace, submitted to the UN Security Council, places the blame for the stalled reconstruction squarely on Hamas. This report states that Hamas' refusal to disarm is the primary obstacle preventing the transition to civilian reconstruction in Gaza. The Board of Peace noted that while humanitarian aid has increased, significant needs remain, with extensive shortages of shelter, water, healthcare, and employment.
The Board of Peace report also highlighted that Hamas continues to maintain its military structures, tunnels, and weapons, refusing to cooperate with the necessary disarmament and transition to civilian control. The report recommends that the UN exert diplomatic pressure on Hamas to adhere to a roadmap for replacing the governing authority and continuing reconstruction efforts. It estimates that $30 billion is needed for reconstruction, which could create 250,000 jobs within five years.
Previously, President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had presented a comprehensive proposal to end the Gaza war. This plan called for the immediate release of all hostages within 72 hours, Hamas disarmament, and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, with an international mission to police the territory and a technocratic Palestinian team to restore governance.