Gaza Reconstruction Plan

Gaza Reconstruction Plan

A US backed framework for postwar Gaza is under discussion, shaped by consultations between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, and linked to the second phase of the ceasefire process. The concept prioritizes an initial pilot reconstruction effort in southern Gaza, beginning around Rafah, before any wider redevelopment is considered.

Current discussions focus on launching early works inside areas of southern Gaza under Israeli security control. Officials have informally referred to the pilot zone as Green Rafah or New Rafah. The stated objective is to clear rubble, neutralize unexploded ordnance and remaining militant infrastructure, and establish limited livable zones that could serve as a proof of concept for broader rebuilding across the Strip.

From a security standpoint, Israel maintains control over two critical corridors. The Philadelphi Corridor runs along the Egypt border and is intended to block weapons smuggling and cross border rearmament. The Netzarim Corridor cuts east to west across Gaza and is designed to limit militant movement and logistical recovery. Together, these corridors divide the territory and give Israel effective security control over roughly 53% of Gaza under the current ceasefire arrangements.

Reconstruction is explicitly tied to security benchmarks. Progress is conditioned on Hamas disarmament or at minimum the removal of its military capabilities from designated zones, as well as continued steps on hostage releases. Any reopening of the Rafah crossing is expected to be linked to these developments rather than granted automatically.

Longer term proposals circulated by figures close to Trump describe a multibillion dollar redevelopment vision for Gaza, beginning in the south and expanding northward if security conditions allow. These concepts emphasize civilian governance, economic infrastructure, housing and services without militant or foreign military presence inside the rebuilt areas. Officials stress that these are strategic outlines rather than approved blueprints.

Regarding the specific Green Rafah concept discussed between Netanyahu and Trump, several points are circulating publicly but remain unconfirmed or partial.

1. Maps shown in briefings depict Israeli security control extending behind a marked line inland from Rafah, with the remaining populated areas stretching toward the Mediterranean.

2. The concept envisions new civilian zones described as New Gaza or Green Rafah that would operate without Hamas military infrastructure and without a permanent Israeli military presence inside the city itself.

3. These areas are described as demilitarized civilian zones designed to attract residents seeking stability and services.

4. Israeli authorities have reportedly undertaken extensive debris clearance in parts of southern Gaza at US request, though no official percentage figures have been publicly verified.

5. Claims of mass population transfers to New Gaza during the second phase of the ceasefire have not been formally confirmed by Israel, the US, or international mediators.