BRUSSELS, July 16, 2026 — The United States is advocating a major shift in the approach to rebuilding Gaza, with President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner urging European and Arab officials to replace traditional aid models with a new investment-driven strategy.

During a closed-door meeting in Brussels, Kushner outlined the Trump administration’s vision for Gaza’s recovery, arguing that previous humanitarian efforts had failed to create lasting stability and economic opportunity. The discussions took place alongside the launch of an international recovery initiative valued at nearly €900 million, aimed at supporting reconstruction projects across the territory.

Call for a Fundamental Change

According to participants familiar with the discussions, Kushner said the international community should move away from the traditional system of humanitarian assistance coordinated largely through non-governmental organisations and instead focus on long-term economic development.

He reportedly argued that future reconstruction should prioritise investment, job creation and sustainable economic growth capable of transforming Gaza’s economy rather than relying primarily on emergency aid.

The proposal reflects the Trump administration’s broader approach of encouraging private-sector investment as a key driver of post-conflict recovery.

Security Seen as Essential

A central element of the proposal is the belief that reconstruction cannot succeed without lasting security.

Kushner reportedly emphasised that rebuilding efforts should be accompanied by the disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of stable governance structures capable of attracting international investment.

Officials involved in the discussions said security, political reform and economic development must progress together if reconstruction is to produce lasting results.

International Recovery Initiative

The Brussels meeting coincided with the launch of the Team Gaza Initiative, an international partnership involving the European Union, several European and Middle Eastern countries, international financial institutions and development agencies.

The initiative has secured commitments of approximately €900 million to support essential recovery projects, including the restoration of water systems, healthcare services, sanitation infrastructure and debris removal.

Officials stressed that the funding is intended to help improve living conditions while preparing for larger-scale reconstruction once political and security conditions permit.

Different Visions for Reconstruction

While participants broadly agreed that Gaza requires extensive rebuilding after years of conflict, differences remain over how reconstruction should be organised.

Many humanitarian organisations continue to support the existing United Nations-led aid system, arguing that it provides internationally recognised mechanisms for delivering assistance to civilians.

The U.S. proposal, by contrast, places greater emphasis on private investment, economic partnerships and long-term development projects designed to reduce dependence on humanitarian aid.

These differing approaches are expected to remain a major topic of discussion among international partners in the months ahead.

Political Challenges Persist

Despite renewed international attention, significant obstacles remain before large-scale reconstruction can begin.

Questions surrounding governance, security arrangements, the future role of Hamas and long-term political negotiations continue to complicate planning for Gaza’s recovery.

International officials have also acknowledged that rebuilding efforts will depend heavily on maintaining stability and ensuring that reconstruction materials and financial assistance can be delivered safely and effectively.

Focus on Long-Term Recovery

Supporters of the U.S. proposal argue that Gaza’s future depends not only on repairing damaged infrastructure but also on creating a self-sustaining economy capable of generating employment and attracting investment.

European officials have indicated that discussions with the United States and regional partners will continue as efforts move forward to coordinate reconstruction plans and maximise the impact of international funding.

Although no final agreement has been reached on the preferred model for rebuilding Gaza, the Brussels meeting highlighted a growing international debate over how best to combine humanitarian assistance, security reform and economic development in one of the world’s most challenging post-conflict environments.