Beyond the “Gaza Riviera” Approach

Policy Brief

This policy brief critically assesses the recent proposals for Gaza’s reconstruction put forth in US President Donald Trump’s “Peace Deal”. It argues that they frame reconstruction primarily as a real estate and investment opportunity while overlooking the political, social, and economic conditions necessary for sustainable recovery. Such approaches risk depoliticising the Palestinian question and reducing reconstruction to a technical exercise detached from the realities of occupation, displacement and governance.

The brief also examines the European Union’s response to the destruction of Gaza. Internal divisions among member states and the absence of a coherent strategic vision have prevented the EU from advancing a credible alternative framework, limiting its role to humanitarian support rather than political leadership. The publication argues that reconstruction must be understood as a multidimensional process. Beyond rebuilding infrastructure, it requires restoring human capital through investment in schools, universities, healthcare services, and local economic development.

Equally important is the reconstruction of the Palestinian political sphere, including the promotion of representative and accountable governance capable of addressing the legitimacy crisis of the Palestinian Authority. Finally, the brief highlights the importance of supporting locally driven reconstruction initiatives. Empowering Palestinian communities and grassroots actors offers a more sustainable and inclusive pathway to recovery than externally imposed megaprojects, while strengthening prospects for long-term stability and self-determination.

This policy brief is part of the FEPS initiative Call to Europe Cyprus 2026, which focused on “A New Strategy for Peace and Cooperation in the Mediterranean“ The event explored a range of issues related to Euro-Mediterranean relations, including the Pact for the Mediterranean, the implications of the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East for the Mediterranean region, and democratic resilience in North Africa.