Washington Post touts unserious plan for Gaza
Pouring billions in and giving administrative control to "reformed Palestinian Authority" is not the answer
The editors of the Washington Post say “the Arab plan for Gaza should be taken seriously.” In my view, though, it’s not a serious plan.
To no one’s surprise, the Arab plan for Gaza begins with pouring huge amounts of money into that cesspool of anti-Israeli and anti-American hatred:
The Arab plan envisions a rebuilding effort in three phases. The first, projected to last six months, would focus on clearing Gaza of rubble and unexploded ordnance, building 200,000 temporary homes for more than 1 million people, and repairing about 60,000 salvageable buildings. This is estimated to cost $3 billion.
During the second phase, lasting up to three years, some 400,000 permanent houses would be built; running water, electricity and telecommunications would be restored; and Gaza’s seaport and its international airport would be rebuilt. Estimated cost: $20 billion.
The third phase, costing $30 billion over 2½ years, would see housing completed for the entire population, construction of an industrial zone and new commercial ports built. The total price tag for the three phases is $53 billion.
(Emphasis added)
These estimates almost certainly understate the true costs. Don’t they always?
But let’s not quibble about the price tag. If other countries want to contribute billions towards a rebuilding effort, that’s their business. The U.S. should not spend a dime on Gaza.