In brief
The Board of Peace, an initiative by former President Donald Trump, has announced a $2.45 billion reconstruction package for Gaza to begin six months after the ceasefire. The plan will cover 66 programmes, including housing, diesel generators and waste removal, but only £280 million has been disbursed out of a pledged £18 billion. Experts say a full decade‑long recovery will cost up to £71 billion, with ongoing challenges in security, governance and cross‑community consensus. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff highlighted progress in hostage releases, while Jared Kushner acknowledged delays and called for continued global support.
On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, the Board of Peace – an initiative launched by former U.S. President Donald Trump – announced a $2.45 billion recovery package for Gaza.
Funding will be spread across 66 programmes over six months, targeting housing, diesel generation, waste removal and other urgent needs. Yet the board admitted that only £280 million of an £18 billion pledge has been disbursed, with a projected total cost of £71 billion for a full decade‑long recovery.
Jared Kushner, a board member and Trump’s son‑in‑law, said the project faced “different delays on different things, for whatever reason”, stressing the board’s unwavering commitment. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff echoed the sentiment, noting the successful release of hostages and the existence of a ceasefire, however imperfect.
The plan still contends with complex challenges, including ensuring safety for reconstruction crews, stabilising Gaza’s internal governance and fostering agreement between Israeli and Palestinian leaders. Secretary of State Marco Rubio added that several countries have pledged assistance and the board seeks further participation.
Michael Eisenberg, an Israeli‑American board member, explained that clearing unexploded ordnance and demolishing underground tunnel networks are prerequisites to rebuilding homes, sanitation and other infrastructure.
The Board of Peace, born from Trump’s 20‑point Gaza peace plan presented alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last year, now operates on a global scale beyond Gaza. The initiative continues to press for the disarmament and safe release of hostages, with Hamas agreeing to return the remaining 48 detainees in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
