Gaza requires $71.4 billion over the next decade to rebuild after extensive destruction caused by the recent conflict, according to a joint report from the European Union, United Nations, and World Bank released Wednesday. The assessment, the first comprehensive evaluation since a US-brokered ceasefire took effect in October 2023, outlines the enormous financial and logistical challenges facing the Palestinian enclave.
The report estimates that immediate reconstruction efforts over the next 18 months will cost approximately $23 billion. Key priorities include restoring essential services, repairing critical infrastructure, and revitalizing the economy. Housing is identified as the most urgent sector, requiring about $16.2 billion to address widespread displacement and destruction. Agriculture and food systems need $10.5 billion, healthcare $10 billion, and commerce and industry $9 billion.
The document highlights the severity of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. It states that the population has regressed by 77 years in terms of human development due to widespread deprivation in living conditions, income, food security, gender equality, and social inclusion. Approximately 60% of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents have lost their homes and many live in tents or rubble-strewn shelters exposed to harsh conditions. Most have also lost their livelihoods, compounding difficulties in meeting basic needs.
The report comes in the aftermath of a devastating military offensive by Israeli forces, triggered by Hamas’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The conflict resulted in the deaths of over 72,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, while Israeli officials report 1,200 Israeli fatalities from the Hamas assault. Most of the enclave remains under partial Israeli occupation and blockade, with Hamas controlling nearly half of the territory. Full disarmament of Hamas, a stipulated condition for significant reconstruction aid, has yet to be agreed upon.
Health facilities in Gaza are severely impacted, with less than half of hospitals operational. Over 40,000 individuals suffer from conflict-related injuries, including many children in need of long-term rehabilitation. Many schools have been converted into emergency shelters for displaced families.
The report references an earlier damage assessment from February 2025, which had estimated reconstruction costs at $53.2 billion, indicating a growing recognition of the extensive financial resources required. Governance and oversight of the rebuilding process have been assigned to the “Board of Peace,” an initiative launched by former US President Donald Trump in January. While Trump has asserted that multiple countries have pledged billions in aid, tangible funding has yet to materialize.
Humanitarian agencies on the ground warn that, with no reconstruction having begun since the ceasefire, living conditions remain dire and millions continue to face immediate threats to their well-being amid political and security uncertainties.