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Cyprus’ plan to get involved in rebuilding the war-torn Gaza Strip is still in its early stages, with the government signaling its intention to include Cypriot companies in the massive international reconstruction effort, but without a concrete framework yet in place.
President Nikos Christodoulides announced the government’s ambition for Cypriot businesses to play a role in Gaza’s reconstruction, highlighting the island’s strategic position and its growing humanitarian profile through the Amalthea sea corridor.
According to UN estimates, rebuilding Gaza will cost around $52 billion, with nearly 90% of buildings destroyed, including hospitals, universities, and entire neighborhoods.
According to government sources, the proposal includes six initiatives across three main areas: security, reconstruction, and humanitarian aid, aligned with the broader U.S. peace plan for the region. While details remain to be finalized, Cyprus hopes to secure a fair share of the project’s first phase.
Officials say Cyprus brings valuable assets to the table: its experience managing the Amalthea humanitarian corridor, the operational and training expertise of the CYCLOPS center, and its upcoming role as holder of the EU Council Presidency, all of which strengthen its credibility as a regional stability hub.
However, despite the government’s enthusiasm, Cypriot businesses appear cautious. Industry sources told KNEWS that companies have not yet been briefed on the specifics of the six-point proposal and are waiting for a clear plan before deciding on their involvement.
In the early phase, Cypriot firms are expected to contribute mainly through the supply of construction materials. Over time, the government envisions involvement from the construction, logistics, transport, and supply sectors, areas where Cyprus has established expertise and strong ties with Arab countries.
Business circles have also raised questions about safety, access conditions, project management, and staffing, all crucial factors before any commitment is made.
Christodoulides is expected to present Cyprus’ proposal to his EU counterparts at the upcoming European Council meeting on October 23, where leaders will discuss how the bloc can help ensure lasting peace in the Middle East.
According to UN estimates, rebuilding Gaza will cost around $52 billion, with nearly 90% of buildings destroyed, including hospitals, universities, and entire neighborhoods. Clearing the rubble alone could cost more than $1.2 billion, underlining the immense scale and challenge of the reconstruction effort ahead.
*This is a summary of the original article in Greek by Dorita Yiannakou of Kathimerini
