The scale of destruction in the Gaza Strip is staggering, with the removal of rubble potentially taking over seven years, according to a senior United Nations official. Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services, stated that the volume of debris exceeds 60 million tons as a result of the ongoing conflict.
Da Silva, following a visit to the region, described the devastation as “unbelievable,” noting that it has impacted homes, schools, clinics, and essential infrastructure like water and electricity networks. He emphasized the sheer magnitude of the challenge, explaining that 60 million tons of rubble is “equivalent to the cargo of nearly 3,000 container ships,” and that “today, every person in Gaza is surrounded by about 30 tons of rubble.”
The UN official warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis and growing despair among the population, exacerbated by harsh winter conditions and shortages of fuel and shelter. He stressed the urgent need for rubble removal and the restoration of basic services to facilitate the recovery of two million Palestinians.
Da Silva also expressed concern about the potential loss of an entire generation of children who have been out of school for three years because of the conflict. The impact on their future is deeply worrying.
Regarding reconstruction costs, Da Silva indicated that approximately $53.2 billion is needed for early recovery and reconstruction in the occupied Palestinian territories, including Gaza and the West Bank, with $20 billion urgently required within the first three years. This significant investment is crucial for rebuilding lives and infrastructure.
The ongoing conflict in the Palestinian territory since October 2023 has caused widespread destruction, impacting an estimated 90% of Gaza’s infrastructure. Tens of thousands of Palestinians, primarily women and children, have been killed or injured. Other UN reports estimate the total reconstruction cost could reach $70 billion.
