Israel to Fund Debris Removal and Reconstruction Efforts in Gaza
December 11, 2025503 VuesTemps de lecture: 2 minutes
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Israeli sources have reported that Israel will assume the financial responsibility for debris removal and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, following a request from the United States. This decision is seen as a crucial step toward advancing to the second phase of the ceasefire agreement and initiating the reconstruction process.
Destruction in Gaza and Cost Estimates
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the U.S. has urged Israel to bear the costs of clearing debris that has accumulated over the past two years due to airstrikes and building demolitions. 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 that could total billions of dollars.
Israel's Conditions and the Next Phase of Reconstruction
Israel has stated that it will not proceed to the second phase of reconstruction until it secures the return of Israeli prisoner Ran Guily. The Israeli government has provided intermediaries with information and aerial images to assist in locating him.
Caroline Levitt, a spokesperson for the White House, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to recover the body and that the U.S. administration aims to ensure a smooth transition to the second phase. Plans include forming a "Special Peace Council for Gaza" and establishing a technocratic government to oversee timely reconstruction.
International Stabilization Force in Gaza
President Donald Trump plans to appoint an American general to lead the International Stabilization Force (ISF) set to be deployed in Gaza, with operations expected to commence in Rafah in early 2026. Countries like Indonesia and Azerbaijan have expressed their willingness to contribute troops, while others will provide training, funding, or equipment. However, Israel has expressed skepticism regarding the ability of this force to independently dismantle Hamas's military capabilities, asserting that the Israeli military will need to maintain a specific role.
U.S. Focus on Reconstruction
Israeli officials have indicated that the U.S. appears to be prioritizing Gaza's reconstruction over the disarmament of Hamas, raising concerns in Tel Aviv regarding the maintenance of security and stability in the region.
Destruction in Gaza and Cost Estimates
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the U.S. has urged Israel to bear the costs of clearing debris that has accumulated over the past two years due to airstrikes and building demolitions. 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 that could total billions of dollars.
Israel's Conditions and the Next Phase of Reconstruction
Israel has stated that it will not proceed to the second phase of reconstruction until it secures the return of Israeli prisoner Ran Guily. The Israeli government has provided intermediaries with information and aerial images to assist in locating him.
Caroline Levitt, a spokesperson for the White House, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to recover the body and that the U.S. administration aims to ensure a smooth transition to the second phase. Plans include forming a "Special Peace Council for Gaza" and establishing a technocratic government to oversee timely reconstruction.
International Stabilization Force in Gaza
President Donald Trump plans to appoint an American general to lead the International Stabilization Force (ISF) set to be deployed in Gaza, with operations expected to commence in Rafah in early 2026. Countries like Indonesia and Azerbaijan have expressed their willingness to contribute troops, while others will provide training, funding, or equipment. However, Israel has expressed skepticism regarding the ability of this force to independently dismantle Hamas's military capabilities, asserting that the Israeli military will need to maintain a specific role.
U.S. Focus on Reconstruction
Israeli officials have indicated that the U.S. appears to be prioritizing Gaza's reconstruction over the disarmament of Hamas, raising concerns in Tel Aviv regarding the maintenance of security and stability in the region.
