United Nations Report Warns Gaza’s Reconstruction Could Take Centuries Amid Unprecedented Economic Decline
A United Nations report has revealed that Gaza’s reconstruction after the recent military conflict involving Hamas could take centuries, even under the most optimistic scenarios. The report released by the U.N. Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) suggests that Gaza’s recovery to its pre-October 7, 2023, economic state might take up to 350 years.
The study indicates that even if hostilities were to end immediately and the territory reverted to its fragile pre-conflict condition, significant hurdles remain. The region has seen severe economic decline, and according to Rami Alazzeh, the report's author, the slow growth trend from 2007 to 2022 is a critical factor. During that period, Gaza's growth rate averaged just 0.4% annually. At this rate, Alazzeh states, it could take 350 years for Gaza to reach its previous GDP levels.
“The message is that Gaza's recovery depends on the conditions in which it occurs,” Alazzeh said. “We’re not suggesting it will take 350 years because that would mean Gaza never recovers, but the path ahead is highly uncertain.”
Even under favorable conditions, such as an end to military operations, unrestricted movement of goods and people, and substantial investment, the report estimates that Gaza’s GDP per capita might only return to 2022 levels by 2050, given a 10% annual growth rate. The region also faces a 2.8% population growth rate, complicating efforts to improve living standards.
The WHO will resume mass polio vaccinations in Gaza on 22 February, aiming to immunise over 591,000 children under 10 after the virus was detected in wastewater. The campaign, delayed since November due to conflict, comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions and rising health risks.
Palestinian business-owners in the Jabalia refugee camp struggle to revive their daily activities despite harsh conditions. In the face of these challenges, all the business owners share a common hope: peace and stability.
King Abdullah II reaffirmed Jordan’s opposition to Palestinian displacement during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington
As US-Russia peace talks advance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy intensifies diplomatic efforts, holding discussions with multiple world leaders to rally support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and regional security.
Hamas has begun releasing six more hostages from Gaza on Saturday in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, as Israel confirmed that a body handed over earlier was that of hostage Shiri Bibas.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for February 22nd, covering the latest developments you need to know.
A tragic crowd crush at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night left 18 dead and 10 injured as thousands of people, many heading to the Kumbh Mela festival, attempted to board delayed trains. The incident highlights the ongoing risks of overcrowding at public transportation hubs in India.
A Delta Air Lines regional jet flipped upside down upon landing at Toronto Pearson Airport on Monday, injuring 18 people. Officials are investigating whether strong winds and snow played a role in the incident.
Berlin, February 21, 2025 – German citizens will head to the polls on Sunday, February 23, for a snap general election after the coalition government collapsed late last year.
Hamas has handed over the bodies of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, deepening national mourning in Israel. Their fate had remained uncertain for months after their abduction during the October 7, 2023 attack.
The Asian Development Bank approved a $125 million loan to support Uzbekistan in modernizing water management, improving water security, and increasing access to safe and reliable water in the country.
Afghanistan’s Taliban leaders dismissed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) jurisdiction over the country, labeling their predecessors' 2003 decision to join the Hague-based court’s founding treaty as "unlawful."
As US-Russia peace talks advance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy intensifies diplomatic efforts, holding discussions with multiple world leaders to rally support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and regional security.
Hamas has begun releasing six more hostages from Gaza on Saturday in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, as Israel confirmed that a body handed over earlier was that of hostage Shiri Bibas.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for February 22nd, covering the latest developments you need to know.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
