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Macron says international community will 'show up' at Gaza summit to finance rebuild

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, October 13th 2025 at 22:19 GMT by Associated Press

In a powerful televised address, French President Emmanuel Marx announced that the international community would convene in Paris for a high‑level summit aimed at financing the reconstruction of Gaza, a region that has suffered extensive damage during the recent Israeli‑Palestinian conflict. Speaking from the presidential residence, Macron underscored that the global community must move beyond rhetoric and commit to tangible financial support, stressing that rebuilding Gaza would require a coordinated, multilateral effort.

The Call to Action

Marx began by highlighting the humanitarian crisis that has beset Gaza, citing the destruction of homes, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. He called on governments, international organizations, and the private sector to step forward with financial pledges and technical expertise. “The international community must show up,” he declared, “and demonstrate that it can mobilise the resources necessary for a durable recovery.” The president framed the upcoming summit as an opportunity for donors to outline concrete contributions, with the goal of ensuring that aid is not just short‑term relief but a long‑term investment in the region’s stability.

Financial Targets and Donor Engagement

The French leader noted that estimates put the cost of rebuilding Gaza at a staggering figure, with figures ranging from $10 billion to as high as $100 billion depending on the scope of reconstruction. He urged that this financial burden be shared equitably, stressing the importance of a “fair and transparent” allocation of funds. Macron revealed that France would contribute an initial grant of €200 million to seed the fundraising efforts and would work with the European Union to mobilise additional resources.

Marx also highlighted the role of the United Nations, referencing a UN report that estimates the cost of Gaza’s reconstruction at approximately $12 billion, and urged that the UN Secretary‑General’s office play a leading role in coordinating donor contributions. “The UN’s expertise and legitimacy are crucial,” he added, pointing to the agency’s experience in post‑conflict reconstruction.

Links to UN and World Bank Initiatives

The AP article’s accompanying link to the UN report—“UNDP Gaza Reconstruction Plan: A Roadmap for the Future”—provides a detailed assessment of the rebuilding needs. The report indicates that 50 % of Gaza’s infrastructure—water, electricity, and transportation—must be restored before a full economic recovery can take place. It also underscores the necessity of rebuilding schools, hospitals, and housing with an emphasis on resilience to future shocks. The report’s findings align with Marx’s emphasis on a comprehensive approach that addresses both immediate humanitarian needs and long‑term development.

Another linked resource, the World Bank’s “Emergency Financing for Gaza” brief, elaborates on potential funding mechanisms. The brief outlines a proposal for a special emergency fund that would provide low‑interest loans to local contractors, thereby boosting Gaza’s economy and ensuring that reconstruction work is carried out by the region’s own workforce. Marx expressed enthusiasm for this approach, noting that it would “give Gazans the tools they need to rebuild their own communities.”

Political Context and Diplomatic Repercussions

Marx’s speech came amid heightened diplomatic activity surrounding the Gaza conflict. The article referenced a recent statement by the Israeli Prime Minister, who reiterated Israel’s commitment to the safety of its civilians while maintaining that its military actions were a response to Hamas rocket fire. The AP piece also quoted a Palestinian official who praised the French president for his “proactive stance” but cautioned that any reconstruction effort must be accompanied by a durable cease‑fire agreement.

The president’s remarks were received positively by international leaders. The European Council’s Secretary‑General, who is scheduled to attend the Paris summit, indicated that the EU would match the financial commitments of member states. Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary‑General expressed his readiness to host a coordinating committee that would facilitate donor meetings and monitor project implementation.

A Vision for the Future

In concluding his address, Macron laid out a vision for a “new era of partnership” in Gaza. He urged donors to view the reconstruction as an investment in regional peace, arguing that a stable, economically vibrant Gaza would reduce the likelihood of future conflicts. He also emphasized the importance of inclusive governance, stating that reconstruction projects must involve civil society and local authorities to ensure that rebuilding efforts align with the needs of Gazans.

Marx closed with an appeal to the global community: “The work of rebuilding Gaza is not a charity; it is a shared responsibility. Let us act now, so that future generations can thrive in a land that has been a source of beauty and creativity for centuries.” The summit, scheduled for early March, promises to bring together a diverse array of stakeholders—from governments to NGOs—to chart a comprehensive financial roadmap for Gaza’s future.