US President Donald Trump has suggested that Israel transfer control of Gaza to the United States once the ongoing conflict concludes. He stated that by then, the Palestinian population would have been rehabilitated in modern, safer communities, eliminating the need for a US military presence.
Trump shared his proposal on Truth Social, sparking strong global reactions. Some view it as a bold strategic move, while others dismiss it as unrealistic and provocative.
‘’The Gaza Strip would be turned over to the United States by Israel at the conclusion of fighting,’’ Trump mentioned in his post. ‘’Palestinians would have already been settled in far safer, more beautiful communities, with new and modern homes, in the region. No soldiers from the US would be needed.”
Netanyahu supports the proposal and King Abudullah rejects it
Trump’s proposal was supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called it a ‘’remarkable’’ idea. Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has announced that the military would make a plan to facilitate the voluntary departure of Palestinians. ‘’Gaza residents should be permitted the freedom to leave and emigrate as per the norm in the world, ‘’Katz stated on X.
However, the idea also received criticism internationally. Jordan’s King Abdullah rejected any attempts to take over the land and forcibly displaced Palestinians, stating, ’’We will not approve any forced relocation of the Palestinians.’’ On a similar note, Egyptian officials also rejected the proposal, restating that they ’’will not participate in any plan to push Palestinians out of their land, ’’as reported by Reuters.
While Trump’s plan has drawn attention, it remains unclear whether it is a genuine policy initiative or a negotiation strategy.
US Secretary of State Marco Robio commented, ‘’Gaza population will require temporary relocation during reconstruction, but we are yet to decide whether they will come back.’’
Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue, with uncertainty hovering over the long-term fate of Gaza’s displaced residents.
Palestinian reactions have been negative feedback, with one resident telling Reuters, ‘’We will not sell our land to a real estate developer. We may be distressed but will not leave.’’.
(With inputs from Reuters)