Support UN’s Decision to Prioritize Rebuilding Gaza’s Internet Infrastructure

I am writing to draw your attention to the recent decision by the United Nations to prioritize the reconstruction of Gaza’s internet infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the severe damage sustained during Israel’s both indiscriminate and targeted bombardments and to help rebuild essential services and economic activities. Israel’s assault on Gaza has led to catastrophic damage, with estimates of around $18.5 billion in damages to critical infrastructure as of January 2024. This includes the destruction of housing, health, water, education, and communications systems. The nearly complete collapse of Gaza's power networks has left the area in an almost total blackout, severely impairing daily life and the delivery of humanitarian aid (The United Nations in Palestine (https://palestine.un.org/en/265021-joint-world-bank-and-un-report-assesses-damage-gaza%E2%80%99s-infrastructure)) (World Bank (https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2024/04/02/joint-world-bank-un-report-assesses-damage-to-gaza-s-infrastructure). Rebuilding the internet infrastructure is a crucial step in re-establishing communication, not just within Gaza but also with the outside world. This effort is essential for enabling vital journalism, supporting education, and facilitating economic activities. The restoration of internet services will play a pivotal role in the overall recovery and rebuilding efforts by providing a necessary backbone for various sectors to function effectively and efficiently (UN News (https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148296)) . A recent article from The Intercept highlights the dire need for this reconstruction. The destruction of Gaza's telecommunications networks has isolated its people, hindering humanitarian efforts and the ability to communicate during crises. The UN’s plan, supported by international donors, aims to restore these essential services and ensure that Gaza's residents can reconnect with the world and regain some semblance of normalcy https://theintercept.com/2024/06/21/israel-gaza-internet-rebuild/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=The%20Intercept%20Newsletter The comprehensive recovery plan, supported by the UN and the World Bank, underscores the urgent need for international cooperation and financial assistance to rehabilitate Gaza’s infrastructure. The plan also highlights the devastating impact on the over a million Palestinians facing famine and experiencing displacement. I urge you to support this initiative and advocate for U.S. involvement in the humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Providing robust aid and resources for rebuilding Gaza's infrastructure can significantly contribute to stabilizing the region, promoting peace, and improving the quality of life for countless Palestinians affected by the conflict. I look forward to your efforts to ensure Gaza receives the necessary assistance to rebuild and recover.