US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the United States plans to assume control over the Gaza Strip after Palestinians will be relocated elsewhere. The proposal, revealed during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, includes economic development plans for Gaza. If implemented, it would mark a dramatic shift in long-standing US policy toward the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Trump's announcement followed his earlier suggestion of permanently resettling Gazans in neighbouring countries, describing the region as a "demolition site." Without providing specifics, he asserted that the US would be responsible for clearing unexploded ordnance and rebuilding the enclave.
Trump painted an optimistic vision for Gaza's future, stating that the US would develop the territory, create jobs and turn it into a place of economic prosperity. "We're going to take over that piece, develop it and make it something the entire Middle East can be proud of," he said. He suggested that Gaza could become "the Riviera of the Middle East" and be open to "the world's people."
Netanyahu praised Trump's unconventional approach, saying he was "thinking outside the box." The Israeli leader, whose military had engaged in prolonged conflict with Hamas, welcomed Trump's willingness to challenge conventional perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian dispute.
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During the press conference, Trump depicted Gaza as a symbol of devastation, asserting that Palestinians would not want to return. "They should move to nice homes where they can be happy and not be shot," he stated. He suggested various Arab nations could house them, despite their governments having previously rejected similar ideas.
Despite his weird declaration, Trump did not clarify under what legal or diplomatic authority the US would assume control over Gaza. When questioned, he responded vaguely, emphasising a "long-term ownership position" and claiming regional leaders supported the idea. He also indicated plans to visit Gaza, though no timeline was given.
Trump reiterated his call for Jordan, Egypt and other Arab states to absorb Gazans, this time suggesting their resettlement should be permanent. This stance contradicts his predecessor Joe Biden’s commitment to opposing mass displacement. The proposal aligns with the views of Israel's far-right but risks violating international law and facing strong opposition from regional and Western allies.
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Trump offered no concrete details on how the resettlement would be carried out and his plan lacked clarity on securing Gaza after an American takeover. His remarks added to a series of controversial proposals in his early weeks of his second term, including suggesting US annexation of Greenland and Canada.
(With agency inputs)