Kushner & Trump Unveil $25B Gaza Reconstruction Plan at Davos

A “master plan” for the rebuilding of Gaza, backed by former President Donald Trump, was presented at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, outlined the plan using images of modern skyscrapers and apartment buildings, envisioning a dramatically transformed Gaza Strip.

The Plan Unveiled

Kushner stated that postwar Gaza “could be a place that the people … can thrive, have great employment.” He suggested that cities of 2 to 3 million people could be constructed in the Middle East within three years, implying a similar timeframe for Gaza’s reconstruction. He spoke immediately following Trump’s presentation of an ambitious “Board of Peace” intended to oversee a truce and reconstruction efforts in the region.

Financial Investment

The plan, as presented, requires a substantial financial commitment. Kushner indicated that at least $25 billion (€21.3 billion) in investment would be needed to rebuild Gaza’s infrastructure and public services. He described the potential outcome as offering “a hope” and becoming “a destination.”

Did You Know? The plan foresees four phases of reconstruction, focusing on Rafah (city 1), Khan Younis (city 2), Center Camps (city 3), and Gaza City (city 4).

Context of Destruction

The presentation of this plan follows a period of significant damage to Gaza. The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began with attacks led by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has left much of Gaza damaged or destroyed. Hamas is designated as a terror organization by the United States, the European Union, and Germany, among others.

While an October 2025 ceasefire has reduced fighting and increased aid deliveries, hundreds of thousands of Gazans continue to live in temporary shelters or damaged buildings.

Trump’s Vision

President Trump echoed Kushner’s optimism, stating, “we’re going to be very successful in Gaza.” He described Gaza as a “beautiful piece of property” with potential, drawing on his background as a real estate developer. Trump previously proposed transforming Gaza into a “Riviera of the Middle East,” a plan that received criticism.

When questioned about the future population of a rebuilt Gaza, Trump stated it would be populated by “the world’s people … Palestinians also, Palestinians will live there. Many people will live there.”

Expert Insight: The presentation of a large-scale reconstruction plan while acknowledging the current widespread devastation highlights the significant challenges and complexities involved in rebuilding Gaza. The scale of investment proposed suggests a long-term commitment, but the plan’s success is contingent on sustained peace and cooperation.

What Might Happen Next

If the proposed $25 billion in investment is secured, reconstruction efforts could begin, potentially focusing on the four phases outlined in the plan: Rafah, Khan Younis, Center Camps, and Gaza City. However, the success of these efforts is likely to depend on the continued ceasefire and the ability to establish a stable governing structure. A possible next step could involve detailed planning and negotiations with various stakeholders to determine the specific allocation of funds and the implementation of reconstruction projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggered the recent conflict in Gaza?

The conflict was triggered by attacks led by Hamas in southern Israel on October 7, 2023.

What is the proposed financial investment for rebuilding Gaza?

Kushner spoke of needing investments of at least $25 billion (€21.3 billion) to rebuild Gaza’s shattered infrastructure and public services.

What did Trump say about Gaza’s potential?

Trump described Gaza as a “beautiful piece of property” and previously proposed transforming it into a “Riviera of the Middle East.”

Given the scale of destruction and the complex political landscape, what role could international cooperation play in the future of Gaza?