Sat Jan 25 17:24:05 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Reconstruction: Palestine Seeks India’s Crucial Role
**New Delhi, January 26, 2025** – Palestine has called on India to play a vital role in the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The Palestinian Charge D’ Affaires, Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, expressed hope for India’s participation, highlighting the nation’s international standing and historical ties with Palestine.
The appeal comes as the UN prepares to address the immense task of clearing an estimated 50 million tonnes of rubble and rebuilding thousands of homes. The conflict, which began in October 2023, resulted in over 46,000 deaths and left two-thirds of Gaza’s pre-war structures damaged or destroyed, according to UN data. Reconstruction is projected to cost up to $1.2 billion and take 21 years.
Mr. Abu Jazer emphasized the Palestinian government’s desire for India’s involvement in crucial reconstruction projects, extending the invitation to Indian private sector companies as well. While no specific projects have been discussed, India’s recent deployment of skilled workers to Israel demonstrates its capacity to contribute manpower. India has a history of supporting Palestine, including providing approximately $40 million to UN aid efforts and humanitarian assistance since the recent conflict.
The ceasefire, now a week old, is considered the first phase of a three-phase agreement. The second phase witnessed another exchange of hostages and prisoners. The UN anticipates discussions on the reconstruction process to begin soon if the ceasefire holds. Palestine views India’s participation as essential to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan people and achieve the goal of Palestinian statehood.
First Piper 