Trump's Board of Peace urges fix to gap' in funding

"The board estimated in its report that 85 percent of Gaza's buildings and infrastructure have been destroyed and that 70 million tonnes of rubble need to be cleared. The May 15 report before the UNSC said that funding gaps must be closed with urgency, without offering details of how big the gap was. The cost of reconstructing Gaza, large swathes of which have been completely levelled during Israel's genocidal war and subsequent efforts to demolish Palestinian homes and buildings, has been estimated at $70bn."

A UN-approved body overseeing Gaza administration and reconstruction says pledged funds have not arrived despite the urgent situation in Gaza. The Board of Peace warns of a significant gap between funds disbursed and $17bn pledged to it. A May 15 report to the UN Security Council says committed funds not yet disbursed create a difference between a framework on paper and delivery for Gaza residents. Funding shortfalls raise concerns that the Board of Peace may sidestep traditional international organizations and aid groups. The estimated reconstruction cost is $70bn, with 85% of buildings and infrastructure destroyed and 70 million tonnes of rubble requiring clearance. The report urges urgent closure of funding gaps without specifying the size. Many countries have declined to participate, including the United States and Saudi Arabia.

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