UN Report Predicts Century-Long Rebuilding Process for Gaza

Reconstruction on a Scale Unseen Since World War 2

The United Nations (UN) has released a report stating that the rebuilding of Gaza, after seven months of conflict, will be on a scale not witnessed since World War 2. The UN Development Program (UNDP) estimates that it could take "approximately 80 years to restore all the fully destroyed housing units" in Gaza, suggesting that the reconstruction process could extend into the next century.

Unprecedented Levels of Destruction

The UNDP Administrator, Achim Steiner, highlighted the "unprecedented levels of human losses, capital destruction, and the steep rise in poverty in such a short period of time." He warned that these factors could lead to a serious development crisis threatening future generations. The report estimates that around 80,000 homes have been completely destroyed, with a further 370,000 damaged. It suggests that rebuilding could be completed by 2040, but only if construction materials are delivered five times faster than in the 2021 crisis and if the conflict were to end immediately.

Poverty and Destruction

Further information from Reuters suggests that if the war continues for nine months, poverty levels could rise from 38.8% to 60.7% of Gaza's population, pushing a significant portion of the middle class below the poverty line. The devastation caused by Israel's bombardment has been likened to a "moonscape" of destruction by one UN official.

Casualty Figures and Aid Efforts

As of Thursday, the Gaza Health Ministry reported that 34,596 civilians have died since Israel launched its offensive in response to Hamas terror attacks, with over 77,000 wounded. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim to have killed around 13,000 militants during the operation, but these figures are disputed by both sides. To combat the looming threat of famine, the Pentagon is nearing completion of a $320 million floating pier to facilitate the delivery of maritime food aid into Gaza.

Controversy Over Aid Distribution

However, some officials have criticized this as a mere public spectacle and a waste of resources. They argue that the focus should be on more efficient land routes and addressing the issues of damaged roads and lawlessness that are hindering distribution within Gaza. Israel has been accused of blocking vital food aid at border crossings, and Jordan has recently accused Israeli settlers of destroying inbound aid under IDF supervision.

US Involvement and Criticisms

The Biden administration continues to face criticism for its perceived role in the destruction and death in the Gaza Strip. Critics argue that by continuing to supply weapons and billions of dollars to Tel Aviv without any conditions, the US is effectively supporting the conflict. With the Netanyahu government still considering a ground assault on Rafah, it appears that these destructive policies will continue.

What are your thoughts on this situation?

This report paints a grim picture of the situation in Gaza and the long road to recovery. What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you think there's a better way to handle the situation? Share this article with your friends and let's get a conversation started. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.