Israel to Fund Debris Removal in Gaza Following U.S. Request
December 11, 2025499 ViewsRead Time: 2 minutes
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Israeli officials have confirmed that Israel will cover the costs associated with debris and destruction removal in the Gaza Strip, following a request from the United States. This decision is seen as a crucial step toward initiating the second phase of the ceasefire agreement and advancing reconstruction efforts.
Destruction in Gaza and Cost Estimates
According to the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, the U.S. has urged Israel to take responsibility for the removal of debris accumulated over the past two years due to extensive bombing and building demolitions. The United Nations Development Program estimates that the volume of debris in Gaza is approximately 68 million tons, equivalent to the weight of 186 buildings the size of the "Empire State Building." The anticipated cost for debris removal is expected to reach hundreds of millions of shekels, as part of a broader reconstruction initiative projected to cost billions of dollars.
Israel's Conditions and the Second Phase of Reconstruction
Israel has stipulated that it will not proceed to the second phase of reconstruction until the body of Israeli prisoner Ron Gully is recovered. Israeli authorities have shared information and aerial photographs with intermediaries to assist in locating him.
Caroline Levitt, a spokesperson for the White House, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to recover Gully's body. She noted that the U.S. administration is working to facilitate a smooth transition to the second phase, which includes the establishment of a "Special Peace Council for Gaza" and a technocratic government to oversee the reconstruction process efficiently.
International Force for Stabilization in Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to appoint an American general to lead an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, with operations expected to begin in Rafah in early 2026. Countries such as Indonesia and Azerbaijan have expressed willingness to contribute troops, while additional nations will provide training, funding, or equipment. However, Israeli officials have expressed skepticism regarding the ISF's ability to independently dismantle Hamas's military capabilities, indicating that the Israeli military will still need to play a significant role.
U.S. Focus on Reconstruction
Israeli officials have noted that the United States appears to be prioritizing the reconstruction of Gaza over the disarmament of Hamas, raising concerns in Tel Aviv about the region's security and stability.
Destruction in Gaza and Cost Estimates
According to the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, the U.S. has urged Israel to take responsibility for the removal of debris accumulated over the past two years due to extensive bombing and building demolitions. The United Nations Development Program estimates that the volume of debris in Gaza is approximately 68 million tons, equivalent to the weight of 186 buildings the size of the "Empire State Building." The anticipated cost for debris removal is expected to reach hundreds of millions of shekels, as part of a broader reconstruction initiative projected to cost billions of dollars.
Israel's Conditions and the Second Phase of Reconstruction
Israel has stipulated that it will not proceed to the second phase of reconstruction until the body of Israeli prisoner Ron Gully is recovered. Israeli authorities have shared information and aerial photographs with intermediaries to assist in locating him.
Caroline Levitt, a spokesperson for the White House, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to recover Gully's body. She noted that the U.S. administration is working to facilitate a smooth transition to the second phase, which includes the establishment of a "Special Peace Council for Gaza" and a technocratic government to oversee the reconstruction process efficiently.
International Force for Stabilization in Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to appoint an American general to lead an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, with operations expected to begin in Rafah in early 2026. Countries such as Indonesia and Azerbaijan have expressed willingness to contribute troops, while additional nations will provide training, funding, or equipment. However, Israeli officials have expressed skepticism regarding the ISF's ability to independently dismantle Hamas's military capabilities, indicating that the Israeli military will still need to play a significant role.
U.S. Focus on Reconstruction
Israeli officials have noted that the United States appears to be prioritizing the reconstruction of Gaza over the disarmament of Hamas, raising concerns in Tel Aviv about the region's security and stability.
