Former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed permanently relocating displaced Palestinians from Gaza and turning the war-torn territory into a redeveloped economic hub under U.S. oversight. The proposal, announced during a press conference alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, comes as ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue, with a focus on humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts.
U.S. Involvement in Gaza Redevelopment
Trump suggested that the United States could “take over” the Gaza Strip and transform it into what he described as the “Riviera of the Middle East.” He did not specify the legal or political mechanisms through which the U.S. would assume control of the region but emphasized his vision of a modern, world-class redevelopment.
“The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too,” Trump said. “It’ll be wonderful for the people—Palestinians, Palestinians mostly, we’re talking about.”
The former president’s comments align with his broader vision of stabilizing the region through economic initiatives, although no official framework or agreement has been proposed.
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International Response and Rejection of Resettlement Plan
The proposal has been met with strong opposition from U.S. allies in the Middle East, including Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. These nations have warned that forcibly relocating Palestinians from Gaza could destabilize the region and undermine decades-long efforts toward a two-state solution.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance, stating: “The duty of the international community today is to work to alleviate the severe human suffering endured by the Palestinian people, who will remain committed to their land and will not budge from it.”
Jordanian King Abdullah II and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi have also dismissed the idea of resettling Gazans elsewhere, reinforcing their support for an independent Palestinian state.
Reactions from U.S. Lawmakers
Trump’s proposal has drawn mixed reactions from U.S. politicians. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy criticized the idea, calling it an unrealistic and dangerous plan that could escalate tensions in the region. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a known Trump ally, expressed skepticism about sending American troops to oversee Gaza’s redevelopment.
“Most South Carolinians are probably not excited about sending Americans to take over Gaza. I think that might be problematic, but I’ll keep an open mind,” Graham stated.
Ceasefire Talks and Future Negotiations
The U.S. and Israel remain engaged in complex negotiations to extend the ceasefire and secure the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza. Netanyahu confirmed that Israel will send a delegation to Qatar for indirect talks with Hamas, mediated by Qatari officials. Additionally, White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff have been involved in ongoing diplomatic discussions.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu continues to face domestic political challenges, including declining approval ratings and ongoing corruption allegations. His meeting with Trump is seen as an effort to bolster his standing amid these pressures.
Outlook on Palestinian Statehood
While Trump previously advocated for a two-state solution in 2020, his recent statements suggest a shift in position. “A lot of plans change with time,” he told reporters, referencing the ongoing conflict and loss of life since his previous term.
Hamas has strongly condemned Trump’s remarks, stating: “We reject Trump’s statements in which he said that the residents of the Gaza Strip have no choice but to leave, and we consider them a recipe for creating chaos and tension in the region.”
As negotiations progress, the international community continues to push for long-term solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with many leaders advocating for diplomatic and humanitarian approaches rather than forced displacement or military intervention.
