The Gaza Strip’s municipalities have launched a large-scale effort to reopen main streets and clear debris following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The initiative, backed by Qatar’s Gaza Reconstruction Committee, marks the first stage of a broader recovery process after weeks of intense bombardment.
Streets Reopened Amid Ceasefire
As thousands of displaced Palestinians begin returning from southern to northern Gaza, bulldozers and trucks provided by Qatar have been deployed to remove rubble from main roads in Gaza City. The debris, remnants of heavy bombardment, had blocked key thoroughfares and hindered mobility across the devastated urban area.
Mayor of Gaza, Yahya al-Sarraj, stated that the municipalities have launched a major campaign to restore access to homes and shelters. “The destruction has been immense,” he told Qatar News Agency, highlighting the critical support from Qatar in providing machinery and logistical aid.
He noted the clean-up will continue for at least a month, aiming to facilitate movement, restore daily life, and eventually begin rebuilding infrastructure. Al-Sarraj expressed deep gratitude to Qatar’s leadership, government, and institutions for their ongoing support, calling the aid “vital” to Gaza’s recovery.
Infrastructure in Ruins
The Israeli military campaign over the past two years has severely crippled Gaza’s municipal infrastructure. According to al-Sarraj, more than 85% of the municipality’s operational capacity has been destroyed, including heavy machinery, vehicles, and essential services. The municipalities now depend heavily on private sector contributions, which are limited and ageing.
Among the most urgent needs, al-Sarraj cited spare parts for vehicles and generators, solar energy systems, batteries, tyres, engine oil, water and sewage tanks, and heavy equipment to remove debris still clogging streets and collapsed buildings.
Calls have intensified for the opening of border crossings and ports to allow the entry of vital supplies. Al-Sarraj stressed that the municipalities need at least 1,000 tonnes of cement to begin restoring water wells, sewage treatment plants, and municipal services.
Next Steps: Shelter and Economic Revival
Beyond reopening roads, municipal authorities are prioritising the provision of shelter, particularly as colder weather approaches. Temporary housing and tents are urgently needed to protect women and children.
Rebuilding efforts will also focus on reviving local businesses and markets, essential for economic recovery and community resilience. Despite some contact from international and Arab agencies, al-Sarraj said the occupation continues to block the entry of critical emergency supplies.
The mayor also highlighted the toll on municipal leadership: four mayors have been killed in direct attacks, and numerous facilities, vehicles, and service networks have been deliberately destroyed. The prolonged assault has left Gaza’s public service infrastructure in a dire state, requiring sustained external support.
Qatar’s involvement in Gaza’s recovery aligns with its broader regional engagement, including initiatives such as the Visit Qatar 2025 international offices meeting aimed at expanding global partnerships and aid outreach. The Gulf state has long been a prominent supporter of reconstruction efforts in Gaza, providing humanitarian and financial assistance across sectors.
A Long Road Ahead
While the ceasefire has allowed for initial recovery efforts to begin, the road to reconstruction in Gaza is expected to be long and challenging. With most municipal capacities obliterated and border restrictions still in place, the success of rebuilding efforts will depend heavily on international support and unimpeded access to essential materials.
As rubble is cleared and streets reopened, Gaza’s municipalities remain focused on the urgent task of rebuilding not just the city’s infrastructure, but the lives of its people.
