Israel to Fund Debris Removal in Gaza Following U.S. Request
December 11, 2025500 AufrufeLesezeit: 2 Minuten
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Israeli sources indicate that Israel has consented to finance the removal of debris and destruction in the Gaza Strip, a decision prompted by a request from the United States. This move is seen as a preparation for the transition to the second phase of the ceasefire and the initiation of reconstruction efforts.
Extent of Destruction and Cost Estimates
According to the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the United States urged Israel to take on the expenses associated with clearing debris resulting from bombings and building demolitions over the past two years. The United Nations Development Programme estimates that the volume of debris amounts to approximately 68 million tons, equivalent to the weight of 186 buildings the size of the Empire State Building. The cost of debris removal is expected to reach hundreds of millions of shekels, as part of a reconstruction project with total costs projected to be in the billions of dollars.
Israel's Conditions for Reconstruction
Israel insists that the second phase of reconstruction will not commence until the remains of Israeli soldier Ran Guily are returned. The country has provided mediators with information and aerial images to assist in locating him.
Caroline Levitt, spokesperson for the White House, confirmed that efforts to recover the remains are ongoing, and the U.S. government is committed to ensuring a smooth transition to the second phase, which includes establishing a "Special Peace Council for Gaza" and a technocratic government to oversee reconstruction in a timely manner.
International Stabilization Force in Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to appoint an American general to lead the International Stabilization Force (ISF), expected to be deployed in Gaza starting in early 2026, beginning with Rafah. Countries such as Indonesia and Azerbaijan have expressed readiness to contribute troops, while others will provide training, funding, or equipment. However, Israel has raised concerns about the ability of this force to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities independently, asserting that the Israeli military must continue to play a specific role.
U.S. Focus on Reconstruction
Israeli officials suggest that the U.S. government appears more focused on the reconstruction of Gaza than on disarming Hamas, raising concerns in Tel Aviv regarding the maintenance of security and stability in the region.
Extent of Destruction and Cost Estimates
According to the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the United States urged Israel to take on the expenses associated with clearing debris resulting from bombings and building demolitions over the past two years. The United Nations Development Programme estimates that the volume of debris amounts to approximately 68 million tons, equivalent to the weight of 186 buildings the size of the Empire State Building. The cost of debris removal is expected to reach hundreds of millions of shekels, as part of a reconstruction project with total costs projected to be in the billions of dollars.
Israel's Conditions for Reconstruction
Israel insists that the second phase of reconstruction will not commence until the remains of Israeli soldier Ran Guily are returned. The country has provided mediators with information and aerial images to assist in locating him.
Caroline Levitt, spokesperson for the White House, confirmed that efforts to recover the remains are ongoing, and the U.S. government is committed to ensuring a smooth transition to the second phase, which includes establishing a "Special Peace Council for Gaza" and a technocratic government to oversee reconstruction in a timely manner.
International Stabilization Force in Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to appoint an American general to lead the International Stabilization Force (ISF), expected to be deployed in Gaza starting in early 2026, beginning with Rafah. Countries such as Indonesia and Azerbaijan have expressed readiness to contribute troops, while others will provide training, funding, or equipment. However, Israel has raised concerns about the ability of this force to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities independently, asserting that the Israeli military must continue to play a specific role.
U.S. Focus on Reconstruction
Israeli officials suggest that the U.S. government appears more focused on the reconstruction of Gaza than on disarming Hamas, raising concerns in Tel Aviv regarding the maintenance of security and stability in the region.
