Palestinians, along with their supporters and several nations, expressed strong disapproval of President Donald Trump’s recent proposal suggesting that the U.S. take control of the Gaza Strip and permanently relocate its inhabitants. This controversial idea was presented during a news conference at the White House, where Trump spoke alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who appeared to embrace the president’s vision. Trump articulated a plan to create new settlements for Palestinians outside of Gaza and proposed transforming the war-ravaged area into a lavish destination, dubbing it “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
“We will assume responsibility for the Gaza Strip,” Trump declared, emphasizing plans to clear the region of dangerous remnants from previous conflicts, including unexploded bombs and destroyed buildings. He asserted that U.S. intervention would foster economic development and generate countless job opportunities. However, his statements quickly garnered backlash from both allies and adversaries alike.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas urged the United Nations to step in to safeguard the rights of the Palestinian people, describing Trump’s intentions as a significant breach of international law. In response to the proposal, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated that Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem rightfully belong to the Palestinians, asserting these territories are essential for the future establishment of a Palestinian state. Baerbock condemned any forced displacement of Palestinian civilians from Gaza as “unacceptable” and detrimental to diplomatic efforts aimed at a two-state solution. She emphasized the necessity of an immediate international commitment to rebuilding Gaza, excluding Hamas from governance in the territory.
On the other hand, some Israeli commentators expressed support for Trump’s suggestion of relocating Palestinians from Gaza and redeveloping the area as a tourist attraction. Yaniv Cohen, a former soldier, supported the proposal, citing its necessity for security and development. Prime Minister Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, praising Trump’s willingness to express ideas that others shy away from. Some Israeli figures, like Bezalel Smotrich, the finance minister, appreciated Trump’s stance, while centrist politicians like Benny Gantz acknowledged the need to explore Trump’s ideas alongside other strategic objectives, including the urgent matter of hostages.
France reacted strongly against any forced relocation of Palestinians, with their Foreign Minister categorizing such actions as severe violations of international law that could threaten peace in the region. France reiterated its commitment to mobilizing support for a two-state resolution involving the Palestinian Authority, emphasizing the need to disarm Hamas and reduce Israeli settlements.
In Cairo, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad denounced Trump’s remarks as “racist,” asserting their intent to resist efforts aimed at displacing Palestinians. Additionally, Egyptian officials advocated for rebuilding Gaza without displacing its residents, proposing collaborative aid efforts without forced relocations.
Responding to Trump’s comments, Turkey’s Foreign Minister deemed them “unacceptable,” emphasizing that deportations from Gaza would be rejected both regionally and internationally. He called attention to the necessity for a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as a Palestinian capital.
China expressed firm opposition to the forced relocation of Gaza’s residents, reaffirming its support for Palestinian rule as a key principle for post-war governance.
On the political front in the U.S., House Speaker Mike Johnson praised Trump’s comments as a bold effort toward establishing lasting peace in the region. In contrast, a Houthi leader from Yemen criticized Trump’s statements, characterizing them as emblematic of “American arrogance” and emphasizing regional unity against such proposals. The ongoing war has seen varied reactions to Trump’s ideas, with some expressing hope for stability while others view them as a continuation of established injustices against Palestinians. The discussions surrounding Gaza remain fraught with complex implications for future peace and security in the Middle East.
