photo: EPA-EFE/MOHAMMED SABER

Israel won't fund Gaza reconstruction until Hamas chooses peace

Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat said Israel wants peace in Gaza but has not yet decided whether to participate in its reconstruction. He stressed that Israel will not allow the re-establishment of Hamas rule, which could lead to new militant attacks across the border.

"The key question is whether they want to build Dubai or rebuild Gaza as it was," Barkat said, alluding to Dubai as a symbol of prosperity and cooperation. He added that helping rebuild Gaza is impossible until Hamas decides on a permanent peace with Israel.

The Israeli attack on Gaza follows a major attack on Israeli territory by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, in which 1.200 people were killed and more than 250 were taken hostage. In the ensuing clashes, according to Palestinian health authorities, more than 46.000 people have died, while most of Gaza's 2,3 million residents have been displaced multiple times. Much of the enclave has been destroyed, and aid agencies warn of catastrophic conditions.

The city of Gaza is almost completely destroyed even before the start of the Israeli ground action - Photo Profimedia

The ceasefire, which recently came into effect, has opened the question of rebuilding Gaza. However, Barkat made it clear that reconstruction is not possible until Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, decides on peace and permanent recognition of Israel. “We want to see Dubai in our region, not Gaza under Hamas rule,” he added.

Although key potential donors, such as the UAE and the administration of President Donald Trump, insist that Hamas should not remain in power, the Hamas administration in Gaza quickly regained control and basic services after the ceasefire.

Barkat added that Israel has not yet decided whether it will participate financially in the reconstruction, but will support the efforts of countries such as Saudi Arabia and the Emirates if they ensure that the reconstruction does not pose a threat to Israel.

As diplomats mediate and Iran threatens, Israel strikes targets in Gaza – Photo EPA, Mohamed Saber

Donald Trump's return to the White House, according to Barkat, brings Israel "a strong tailwind," increasing the chances of expanding the Abraham Accords to Saudi Arabia and other countries. These agreements, initiated by Trump, have allowed for the normalization of relations between Israel and several Arab countries, such as the UAE and Bahrain.

Asked about restoring trade ties with Turkey, Barkat said there was no progress yet, but noted that stability in Gaza could change the situation, Reuters reports.

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