What's happened
A UNCTAD report estimates Gaza's reconstruction will cost over $70 billion and take decades, citing war and restrictions that have caused an unprecedented economic collapse. Israeli military actions continue despite a ceasefire, with ongoing violations and casualties. The West Bank also faces severe downturns.
What's behind the headline?
The UNCTAD report underscores the catastrophic economic impact of the ongoing conflict, with Gaza's GDP falling to 2010 levels and per capita income dropping to the lowest in the world. The destruction of infrastructure and systematic blockade have created a human-made abyss, making recovery unlikely without a durable ceasefire and international intervention. The continued violations of the ceasefire, including Israeli military repositioning and attacks, threaten to prolong the crisis. The economic collapse is not only a humanitarian disaster but also a strategic failure for regional stability. The international community's response, including the potential for decades-long recovery, hinges on sustained peace efforts and rebuilding support. Meanwhile, the West Bank's worsening conditions, driven by settlement expansion and military raids, compound the broader crisis, risking further destabilization.
What the papers say
The New Arab and Al Jazeera provide detailed insights into the economic devastation and ongoing violence in Gaza, emphasizing the scale of destruction and the systemic blockade. Reuters and Politico highlight Germany's policy shift, resuming arms exports to Israel following a ceasefire, despite ongoing violations and international criticism. The contrasting narratives reveal a complex geopolitical landscape: while some nations are easing military restrictions, the humanitarian and economic toll continues to escalate, with reports from Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch documenting war crimes and displacement. The coverage illustrates how diplomatic moves, such as Germany's arms export policy reversal, are intertwined with the persistent violence and humanitarian crisis, reflecting a fragile and contentious path toward peace.
How we got here
Since October 2023, Israel's military campaign in Gaza, following Hamas' attack on southern Israel, has led to widespread destruction and a blockade that has severely damaged Gaza's economy. The UN reports that two years of conflict and systemic restrictions have reversed decades of progress, with Gaza's GDP plummeting and dependence on aid increasing. The West Bank faces similar economic challenges due to movement restrictions and violence.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did Germany Resume Arms Exports to Israel Now?
Germany's decision to restart arms exports to Israel marks a significant shift in its foreign policy. After suspending exports amid concerns over Gaza-related conflicts, Germany now reviews exports on a case-by-case basis, citing recent ceasefire agreements and diplomatic efforts. This move raises questions about Germany's stance on peace, security, and its role in the Middle East. Below, we explore the reasons behind this change and what it means for international relations and peace efforts.
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How Are Countries Reacting to Germany’s Decision to Resume Arms Exports?
Germany's recent move to resume arms exports to Israel has sparked a range of reactions worldwide. While some nations see it as a step towards stabilizing the region, others are concerned about the implications for peace and security. This decision raises important questions about international diplomacy, geopolitical shifts, and future arms policies. Below, we explore the key reactions and what they might mean for global stability.
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Why Are Global Conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Other Regions Escalating Now?
Recent developments in Ukraine, Israel, and other regional hotspots are capturing worldwide attention. From renewed arms exports to ongoing military clashes, these conflicts are shaping the future of international peace and security. Curious about what's driving these tensions and what it means for global stability? Below, we answer the most pressing questions about these complex situations.
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How Are Current Conflicts Shaping Global Politics?
Recent developments in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Yemen are significantly influencing international relations. From Germany's decision to resume arms exports to Israel to ongoing Russian attacks in Ukraine and regional tensions in Yemen, these conflicts are reshaping alliances, diplomacy, and security strategies worldwide. Curious about what these changes mean for global stability? Below, we explore key questions about these conflicts and their broader implications.
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What’s the Latest on Humanitarian Crises and Response Efforts Today?
Recent events around the world highlight ongoing humanitarian crises and the efforts to address them. From devastating floods in Vietnam to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, people are searching for updates on rescue operations, international responses, and how these crises impact global stability. Below are the most common questions people are asking about these urgent issues, along with clear, concise answers to keep you informed.
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What Do Recent Middle East and Asia Tensions Mean for Global Stability?
Recent developments in the Middle East and Asia have raised questions about regional stability and international responses. From ceasefires and arms exports to espionage sentences, these events could shape future conflicts and diplomacy. Here are some key questions and answers to help you understand the current situation and what might come next.
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Why did Germany lift its arms export ban to Israel?
Germany's decision to lift its arms export restrictions to Israel has sparked widespread discussion. This move comes after a ceasefire in Gaza, but raises questions about Germany's support for Israel, its stance on peace, and the implications for international law. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this significant policy change and what it means for the region and global diplomacy.
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How Will Germany's Arms Export Decision Impact the Middle East?
Germany's recent move to lift its arms export ban to Israel has sparked widespread debate about regional stability and future conflicts. Many are wondering how this decision might influence ongoing tensions, humanitarian issues, and diplomatic relations in the Middle East. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this significant policy change and its potential consequences.
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Why Is Gaza's Economy Collapsing Now?
Gaza's economic situation has deteriorated rapidly amid ongoing conflict and restrictions. Many wonder what’s causing this collapse and what it means for the future. Below, we explore the key reasons behind Gaza’s economic decline, the impact of recent events, and what experts are saying about the outlook for Gaza and the West Bank.
More on these topics
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central and Western Europe. Covering an area of 357,022 square kilometres, it lies between the Baltic and North seas to the north, and the Alps to the south.
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Friedrich Merz is a German lawyer and politician. A member of the Christian Democratic Union, he served as a Member of the European Parliament from 1989 to 1994 and was elected to the Bundestag from 1994 until 2009, where he chaired the CDU/CSU parliament
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Gaza most commonly refers to:
Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
Gaza may also refer to:
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.