EU announces $1 billion initiative for Gaza recovery

Brussels (ANTARA) - The European Union (EU) on Monday announced an international package worth nearly 900 million euros (approximately $1 billion) to support the early recovery of Gaza, while reaffirming financial support for the Palestinian Authority and its reform efforts.

Speaking after attending a meeting of the Palestinian Donor Group in Brussels, EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica said the newly launched ‘Team Gaza’ initiative has secured an early recovery package of nearly 900 million euros, including 257 million euros (around $292 million) proposed by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank.

The initiative, which involves several European countries, Japan, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, the World Bank, and other partners, will focus on restoring essential services, rebuilding critical infrastructure, and strengthening governance in Gaza.

Suica said the EU has also reached an agreement with Israel to resume two early recovery projects in the areas of water supply and solid waste management, while stressing that effective implementation requires a ceasefire, safe humanitarian access, cooperation with Israel and the Palestinian Authority, and the laying down of arms by Hamas.

She called for the immediate release of Palestinian tax revenues withheld by Israel, saying the funds are crucial for the Palestinian Authority to continue paying salaries and providing basic public services.

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa welcomed the EU initiative and said the Palestinian government has made significant progress on its reform agenda despite mounting political and financial pressures.

Mustafa urged greater international support for Gaza’s recovery, stressing that reconstruction will require improved security conditions, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the reopening of border crossings.