In a bold move, Jared Kushner, senior advisor to US President Donald Trump, has unveiled a $30 billion vision to transform the Palestinian territory of Gaza into a thriving economic hub, dubbed the “New Gaza.” The ambitious plan aims to revitalise the region following two years of conflict, promising “amazing investment opportunities” for potential investors.
Kushner, who is also the president’s son-in-law, outlined the details of the proposal during a recent economic workshop in Bahrain. The plan, which is part of the Trump administration’s broader Middle East peace initiative, focuses on developing Gaza’s infrastructure, creating new jobs, and attracting foreign investment to the region.
“Gaza has tremendous potential,” Kushner told the gathering of government officials and business leaders. “With the right strategies and partnerships, we believe this region can become an engine of opportunity and prosperity.”
The proposal includes investments in transportation, energy, water, and telecommunications projects, as well as the development of industrial and commercial zones. Kushner emphasised the importance of creating an environment conducive to business growth, with a focus on improving governance and reducing bureaucratic obstacles.
According to the plan, the economic transformation of Gaza would be implemented over a two-year period, with the ultimate goal of fostering long-term stability and prosperity in the region. Kushner stressed that the success of the initiative would depend on cooperation between the Palestinian Authority, Israel, and the international community.
However, the plan has already faced criticism from some Palestinian leaders, who have expressed scepticism about the Trump administration’s ability to broker a comprehensive peace deal. The Palestinian Authority has refused to participate in the Bahrain conference, arguing that any economic plan must be accompanied by a political solution to the conflict.
“This is not a substitute for a political solution,” said Saeb Erekat, secretary-general of the Palestine Liberation Organization. “This is an attempt to buy off the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights to freedom and independence.”
Despite the concerns, Kushner remains optimistic about the potential of the “New Gaza” proposal. He believes that by focusing on economic development, the plan can create new opportunities and improve the lives of the Palestinian people.
“We’re not going to solve the whole Middle East problem in one day,” Kushner said. “But we can start by addressing the immediate needs and creating a foundation for a better future.”
The success of the “New Gaza” plan will ultimately depend on its ability to attract significant investment and overcome the political and security challenges that have long plagued the region. As the Trump administration continues to push its Middle East peace initiative, all eyes will be on whether this ambitious economic vision can become a reality.
