A Bold Vision for Postwar Gaza

In a surprising move reported by The Washington Post, the Trump administration is circulating an ambitious postwar strategy for Gaza that aims to radically reshape the region's future. Dubbed the GREAT Trust—short for Gaza Reconstitution, Economic Acceleration and Transformation Trust—this plan seeks to completely relocate the enclave's over two million residents and reinvent Gaza as a U.S.-administered economic powerhouse and luxury tourist magnet.

Relocation or Redevelopment: What's in Store?

The 38-page proposal proposes not just a temporary exit plan for residents but a vision of transformation that would see displaced Palestinians given digital tokens for land rights, which could finance new lives elsewhere or be turned into apartments in futuristic AI-powered "smart cities" planned for Gaza.

Those who opt to leave the territory would receive a substantial $5,000 cash grant, rent subsidies for four years, and a year's worth of food. Remarkably, the plan anticipates that relocating each resident would save around $23,000 compared to the expenses of housing and basic services for those who choose to stay.

High-Powered Collaborators and Financial Planning

Developed in part by Israelis behind the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, the GREAT Trust’s financial model was crafted by a team formerly with the prestigious Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Despite its promising outline, BCG has distanced itself from the project, stating it was not officially sanctioned, leading to the dismissal of two senior partners involved.

Strategic Talks in Washington

In a recent White House meeting, Trump convened key figures including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to brainstorm postwar options for Gaza. While no formal policy decisions emerged, officials described the discussions as "very comprehensive," highlighting the urgency of envisioning a new phase for Gaza.

An Investment Opportunity That Promises Returns?

The plan reassures that it would not rely on U.S. government funding, suggesting instead the potential for substantial returns for private investors. Mega-projects under consideration encompass electric vehicle factories, high-tech data centers, luxurious beach resorts, and soaring apartments. The estimated projected returns are eye-popping—nearly four times a $100 billion investment over a decade.

A Shift in Governance?

Previous proposals for postwar governance in Gaza included various oversight plans from the United Nations and the Palestinian Authority, yet these were firmly rebuffed by Israel, which maintains a focus on security control. The future of Gaza remains a contentious issue amidst evolving discussions.

A Vision for the Future of Gaza

The GREAT Trust envisions the resurrection of Gaza, starting with the removal of debris and unexploded ordnance, followed by a major rebuild of infrastructure. The aim is to create vibrant industrial and tourism zones along Gaza's borders, setting the stage for a fully integrated urban landscape complete with homes, businesses, clinics, schools, parks, and green spaces.