Unprecedented Destruction: Palestinian Prime Minister on the Situation in Gaza

The scale of destruction and human loss in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, requiring immense international efforts for reconstruction. This view was shared by Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa in an article published in The Washington Post on Thursday.

“Five weeks ago marked the 300th day since the war began in Gaza. The level of massacre, destruction, forced displacement, and hunger our people are experiencing is unprecedented in modern history,” he emphasized.

“The extensive devastation in Gaza and the significant need for reconstruction require coordinated and active efforts from the international community,” Mustafa added. “The unprecedented destruction in Gaza not only demands serious international support, but also a collective commitment to reconstruction and rehabilitation. We urge our Arab neighbors and all partner countries to support us in these immense efforts,” he stressed.

In the article, the Prime Minister outlined several principles that will guide his government’s approach to post-conflict resolution and reconstruction in Gaza. “As we relentlessly pursue the end of Israel’s military occupation and the realization of our right to self-determination, these principles will serve as a foundation for the reconstruction and governance of Gaza, addressing the unprecedented humanitarian crisis and laying the groundwork for sustainable peace and stability,” he stated.

“In the case of a permanent ceasefire, the Palestinian government is prepared to assume responsibility for the Gaza Strip, leading efforts to fully integrate it with the leadership of the West Bank,” Mustafa said. This integration is crucial not only for the effective delivery of aid, reconstruction, and rehabilitation in Gaza, but also an essential step towards achieving a permanent political agreement in accordance with international law and the broader goal of a two-state solution.”

According to the Prime Minister, “urgent assistance and immediate reconstruction, under the leadership and strategic coordination of the Palestinian government, should be implemented with the support of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, other UN agencies, donors, and international partners.” He added that “an independent agency will be established to oversee, coordinate, and manage the reconstruction and long-term recovery efforts in Gaza.” Mustafa also emphasized the need for “the reconstruction of the police force in the Gaza Strip.”

“Our program highlights the vital importance of integrating and harmonizing institutions and civil services in the West Bank and Gaza Strip,” the Prime Minister concluded.