Gaza Reconstruction Cost Estimated At US$1 Trillion - PM Anwar

From D. Arul Rajoo

LONDON, Jan 18 (Bernama) -- The reconstruction of Gaza, which was almost entirely destroyed due to Israeli attacks since October 2023, is estimated to cost over US$1 trillion, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said that such a substantial amount is required because key facilities such as mosques, schools, hospitals, and homes have been demolished.

“Some estimate the cost to be as high as US$1 trillion,” he said during a press conference with Malaysian media covering his visit to the United Kingdom on Friday.

Anwar said that Japan has invited Malaysia to co-chair the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD), focusing on Gaza's reconstruction.

On Wednesday, it was reported that a three-phase ceasefire agreement, mediated by Egypt, the United States, and Qatar, will take effect this Sunday, aiming to end the 15-month conflict in Gaza.

On Thursday, Anwar emphasised that while reconstruction is a priority, the loss of over 46,700 Palestinian lives and the displacement of more than two million people must also be acknowledged and never forgotten.

Anwar is currently on an official visit to the UK from Jan 15 to 19 and will proceed to Belgium for a two-day working visit afterwards.

-- BERNAMA