“I think you are going to have tremendous success and Gaza is going to be rebuilt.” This was the optimistic promise President Donald Trump made on the eve of his departure for the Middle East, placing the reconstruction of the war-torn territory at the heart of his peace initiative. His visit is not just about stopping the fighting, but about beginning the long road to recovery.
Trump’s vision for rebuilding is clear and direct: he expects the region’s wealthy Arab countries to take the financial lead. He has repeatedly pointed to the vast resources of Gulf states as the natural source of funding for what will be a multi-billion-dollar, multi-year effort. This approach positions the U.S. as a political and logistical enabler rather than the primary financier.
To turn this vision into reality, Trump is convening a summit of more than 20 regional leaders in Egypt. This gathering will be a critical venue for securing the necessary financial commitments. The discussions will focus on creating a framework for international investment in Gaza’s infrastructure, housing, and economy.
The U.S. is contributing to the effort by establishing a civil-military coordination center, staffed by 200 American troops and international partners. This center will play a key role in managing the flow of aid and materials into Gaza, ensuring that the rebuilding process can begin smoothly and securely once the funding is in place.
For a population living in desperate conditions amid widespread destruction, Trump’s promise offers a powerful glimmer of hope. However, its fulfillment depends entirely on the success of his diplomacy in securing both a lasting peace and the massive financial backing required to make the pledge of a rebuilt Gaza a reality.