Egypt to host conference on Gaza reconstruction in November, Sisi says

Egypt will be hosting an international conference on the reconstruction of Gaza in November, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has announced.

Sisi announced the conference during a speech at the 42nd Cultural Symposium of the Armed Forces event, which marked the 52nd anniversary of the 6 October victory against Israel.

The president commended the Egyptian population for their patience and support amid the recent period of turmoil, and insisted that the government is taking serious steps to implement much-needed domestic reforms.

The conference will see international organisations, donor states and regional partners come together to help coordinate the post-war reconstruction of Gaza.

It will be planned in collaboration with several organisations, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Arab League and the Palestinian Authority.

Representatives from the UN and private sector bodies are also set to attend.

Together, the institutions will determine what each phase of reconstruction will entail.

The first phase will likely focus on restoring everyday essentials and infrastructure, clearing the rubble, assisting with temporary shelter and paving the way for long-term housing and reconstruction.

Egypt has been a key mediator amid Israel's war on Gaza, along with the US and Qatar. Sisi used his speech as an opportunity to praise US President Donald Trump for his efforts in helping broker a ceasefire.

The president also urged Egypt's population to continue their show of solidarity with Palestine amid the rebuilding process.

He further called on the prime minister, Mostafa Madbouly, to coordinate with civil society organisations and all the relevant state bodies to establish a mechanism for public donations and contributions to be used towards financing the effort.

Israel has destroyed over 80 percent of buildings in Gaza, including places of worship, schools, displacement shelters and hospitals. Around 90 percent of the population has also been displaced since the start of the war.

The UN previously reported that around $70 billion is needed to rebuild Gaza.