Former President Donald Trump has sparked significant backlash following his recent comments suggesting that the United States should take control of Gaza. His controversial remarks, made during a social media post, propose that the U.S. not only "own" the territory but also relocate its 2.3 million residents to Egypt and Jordan, claiming they would be "better off" elsewhere.
In his statement, Trump outlined a vision for Gaza’s future, asserting that it could be redeveloped into what he described as the "Riviera of the Middle East." He emphasized that the U.S. would take over Gaza after the conclusion of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, insisting that no American soldiers would be needed for this operation. Trump’s plan has been met with widespread condemnation, particularly due to its implications for the Palestinian population.
Human rights organizations have labeled Trump’s proposal as ethnic cleansing, arguing that forcibly relocating civilians violates international law. Critics have drawn parallels to historical events, suggesting that this plan could be seen as a second Nakba, referencing the mass displacement of Palestinians during the establishment of Israel in 1948. Experts have also described the idea as impractical and morally unacceptable, highlighting the deep connection Palestinians have to their land.
The response from Gaza has been one of anger and rejection. Residents have expressed their determination to remain in their homes, regardless of the difficulties they face. Hamas, the governing body in Gaza, dismissed Trump’s comments as "ridiculous and absurd." Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas characterized the proposal as a serious violation of international law.
Reactions from Israel have been mixed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s ideas as innovative, suggesting they warrant further exploration. However, he maintained that the security of Israel is paramount, emphasizing the need to eliminate threats from Gaza.
Despite the uproar, experts assert that Trump lacks the authority to implement such a plan. Gaza is not U.S. territory, and the U.S. has no jurisdiction there. Furthermore, the logistical and financial challenges of relocating millions of people make the proposal nearly impossible. International laws clearly condemn forced displacement, and neighboring countries, including Egypt and Jordan, have explicitly rejected the idea of relocating Palestinians.
Egyptian officials have reiterated their opposition to any forced relocation, emphasizing their commitment to a comprehensive plan for Gaza’s reconstruction that respects the rights of its residents. Jordan’s King Abdullah II echoed this sentiment, stating that rebuilding Gaza must prioritize the needs of Palestinians without displacing them. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry also condemned any attempts to displace the Palestinian population, asserting that their stance is clear and non-negotiable.
As the situation continues to unfold, Trump’s comments have ignited a heated debate about the future of Gaza and the rights of its people, raising questions about the feasibility and morality of proposed solutions in a region marked by longstanding conflict.