WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that he has not yet reviewed the alternative plan proposed by Arab leaders regarding the future of Gaza once the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel concludes.
Trump’s Response to the Proposal
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump responded to a reporter’s inquiry, saying, “I haven’t seen it. Once I see it, I’ll let you know.” His statement comes after Arab nations rejected his previously stated plan to relocate nearly 2 million Palestinians to neighboring Jordan and Egypt, while transforming Gaza into what he described as the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
Uncertainty remains over whether Trump’s remarks signal a serious policy stance or serve as a negotiation tactic aimed at extracting concessions from Arab states. During a recent meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinted that Trump’s approach might be strategic, encouraging regional leaders to offer counterproposals.
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Arab Nations’ Alternative Plan
Officials from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates are set to meet in Riyadh on Friday to discuss alternative solutions. One key proposal from Egypt suggests raising $20 billion over three years from Arab and Gulf states for Gaza’s reconstruction. The plan emphasizes keeping Gazans in place and establishing a governing body composed of Palestinian technocrats unaffiliated with Hamas.
Egyptian state-run media reported that the proposal includes “secure areas” with mobile housing and shelters while infrastructure is rebuilt. Additionally, a Palestinian governing body would be formed to oversee the region’s administration.
Trump’s Engagement with Saudi Arabia
Trump made his remarks while traveling from Miami, where he addressed the Future Investment Initiative Institute—an event hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. His speech marked the first time a sitting U.S. president attended the gathering, highlighting his strong ties with Saudi leadership. Notably, the crown prince has maintained a close relationship with Trump since his first term in office, including business dealings with Trump’s family and a $2 billion investment in Jared Kushner’s private equity firm.
During his speech, Trump did not elaborate on his Gaza strategy but reiterated his role in securing the January 19 ceasefire, stating, “We’ve secured a ceasefire in Gaza, we’re bringing home the hostages, and they’re reuniting with their families.”
Challenges in Postwar Governance
As discussions continue, a major challenge remains: who will govern Gaza once the conflict ends? While Hamas has expressed willingness to relinquish its administrative role, it has not agreed to disarm. Meanwhile, Israel has rejected the involvement of the Palestinian Authority, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has opposed any plan leading to a two-state solution.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qasim told Al Arabiya TV, “It is not necessary for Hamas to be part of the political and administrative arrangements in the next phase for Gaza, especially if it serves the interests of our people.” However, Israel remains firm in its demand for Hamas’ military disbandment.
Hostage Exchange and Ceasefire Developments
In a separate development, Hamas has agreed to release six Israeli hostages and return the remains of four deceased captives in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including 47 high-ranking Hamas members. As part of the deal, Israel will allow mobile homes and construction materials into Gaza.
Analysts suggest that the expedited exchange indicates both parties are eager to secure as much as possible before the ceasefire’s first phase expires next week. “What we’re looking at now is possibly a quicker resolution to phase two,” said Mirette Mabrouk, senior fellow at the Middle East Institute. However, Israel remains reluctant to end the conflict without Hamas’ total disarmament.
Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis
Since Israel launched its counteroffensive following Hamas’ October 2023 attack, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and approximately 250 hostages taken, Gaza has experienced severe devastation. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 48,200 people—mostly women and children—have been killed, while the Israeli military claims 17,000 of those were militants. The war has displaced more than 2 million Palestinians, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
As discussions on postwar Gaza governance continue, the international community remains divided on how to move forward while ensuring long-term stability and security in the region.
