US Envoy Criticizes Gaza Reconstruction Timeline Amid Truce

U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, criticized the proposed three to five-year timeline for Gaza's reconstruction as unrealistic, suggesting it could take 10 to 15 years instead. This perspective aligns with Trump's view that the Gaza Strip is essentially a 'demolition site,' emphasizing the inhumanity of forcing displaced Palestinians to return prematurely. In light of this, the Trump administration has urged Arab nations, particularly Egypt and Jordan, to temporarily accommodate the 2.3 million displaced Gazans, a proposal that has been met with firm rejection from these countries. Trump's administration is also focused on securing the return of Hamas-held hostages and fostering regional normalization after the conflict. The ongoing discussions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to address these critical issues amidst the broader complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation underscores the heightened geopolitical sensitivities and humanitarian challenges in the region as reconstruction efforts face significant hurdles.