- By Priyanka Koul
- Thu, 06 Feb 2025 11:21 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The White House has recently clarified that President Donald Trump does not plan to deploy US military forces in the Gaza Strip as part of his controversial proposal to "take over" and "own" the war-torn Palestinian region.
This statement comes just a day after President Trump, alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggested at a press conference that the United States could take control of Gaza once its residents are permanently relocated to neighbouring Muslim countries. The aim would be to rebuild Gaza as the "Riviera of the Middle East." This remark has sparked strong global reactions, particularly from Hamas, the Palestinian militant group.
In response, Hamas has strongly condemned the idea, warning that it could worsen violence in the Middle East. According to AFP, a Hamas spokesperson stated that Trump's proposal to “occupy” Gaza was not only “aggressive” but would also destabilise the region and make the situation worse.
What Did White House Say?
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the media, explaining that while President Trump believes the US should play a role in rebuilding Gaza, the plan does not involve sending US troops into the area. Leavitt explained that the President's goal is to support efforts to restore stability to the region but emphasised that there would be no military presence.
“That does not mean boots on the ground in Gaza," Leavitt remarked.
The press secretary also added that the President wants people living in Gaza to be “temporarily relocated" to neighbouring countries so that development work could be carried out in the devastated area.
What Trump Proposed?
In a meeting at the White House on Tuesday, President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu discussed the future of Gaza. Trump proposed that the US should take control of Gaza, with the goal of developing and owning it long-term.
This proposal also includes a plan for Palestinians to be moved out of the conflict zone to nearby countries such as Egypt and Jordan, despite strong opposition from both Palestinian groups and the governments of Egypt and Jordan.
During a joint press conference with Netanyahu, Trump said, "The US will take over Gaza, and we will rebuild it. We will own it."
Trump’s plan also included efforts to remove unexploded bombs, clear destroyed buildings, and create new job opportunities and housing for people in the region.
( Image credits: Reuters)
However, Trump suggested that Palestinians might not return to Gaza after its reconstruction, stating that it would be better for the people who have suffered there to seek refuge in countries with "humanitarian hearts."
Meanwhile, Netanyahu praised Trump as “Israel’s greatest friend” and said that the proposed plan could “change history” and was certainly worth considering.
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