A new proposal has emerged to transform war-torn Gaza into a modern “smart city,” with an ambitious price tag of $112 billion. Dubbed “Project Sunrise,” this ten-year development plan aims to convert the devastated area into a sought-after international destination. The initiative is spearheaded by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former President Donald Trump, and Steve Witkoff, a U.S. special envoy, along with key aides from the White House.
According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, the plan is currently being presented to potential investor nations through a detailed 32-slide PowerPoint presentation. The vision includes the construction of luxury hotels, high-speed rail systems, and advanced AI-integrated infrastructure, aimed at revitalizing a stretch of the Mediterranean coastline that has suffered extensive damage.
The executive summary of the proposal emphasizes the potential for economic growth: “Gaza’s destruction has been profound, but we believe what lies ahead is not just restoration — it’s a chance to develop a gateway of prosperity in the Middle East with state-of-the-art infrastructure, urban design, and technology.” The financial breakdown indicates that the United States would contribute $60 billion through grants and debt guarantees, with the remaining funds expected from international partnerships.
Implementation Challenges and Future Prospects
The proposal outlines a vision for Gaza as a “smart city,” featuring tech-driven governance and public services. A notable aspect of the plan includes the establishment of a Chief Digital Office and an innovation lab to define standards and guide policymaking.
While the project is ambitious, it faces significant hurdles. The plan does not specify which countries or companies will participate in funding the reconstruction, raising questions about its feasibility. Furthermore, the document lacks details on how to accommodate the estimated 2 million Palestinians who would be displaced during the construction phases.
Reports indicate that approximately 68 million tons of rubble remain in Gaza following extensive airstrikes over two years, complicating the rebuilding efforts. U.S. officials familiar with the proposal have expressed skepticism regarding its chances of success, particularly if it hinges on the condition that Hamas agrees to disarm.
Meanwhile, Witkoff has engaged in discussions with high-level delegations from Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar in Miami, focusing on the second phase of the Gaza cease-fire plan. These talks underline the urgent need for international cooperation and support in addressing the humanitarian and logistical challenges that lie ahead.
As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to see if Project Sunrise can transition from an ambitious vision to a viable reality for the people of Gaza.
