Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given his strong approval to President Trump’s bold proposal to take control of the Gaza Strip and relocate its two million residents. Netanyahu called the plan the “first good idea” he’s heard in years, viewing it as a potential game-changer for the war-torn region.
Gazans could relocate, but Gaza needs rebuilding
In an interview on Fox News with Sean Hannity, Netanyahu emphasized that Gazans who wish to leave the territory should be allowed to do so. He proposed that those who relocate could eventually return, but only after Gaza is rebuilt. Netanyahu believes this approach will offer a fresh start and a brighter future for everyone involved.
Trump’s vision: A “Riviera of the Middle East”
Trump’s proposal goes beyond relocation. He suggests the U.S. should step in and take control of Gaza, turning it into an “international unbelievable place” similar to the “Riviera of the Middle East.” Palestinians would be allowed to temporarily settle in neighboring countries, but they would not have the right to return after the transition.
U.S. military intervention on the table
To ensure the plan is carried out, Trump has also suggested sending U.S. troops to the Gaza Strip if necessary. This dramatic step, however, has already faced pushback from neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan, who fear the plan could destabilize the region and threaten fragile cease-fire agreements.
Netanyahu’s support for the plan
Despite the opposition, Netanyahu remains enthusiastic. He believes the idea has the potential to change the course of history and should be explored further. “It’s a remarkable idea,” he said, stressing the importance of pursuing the plan to create a new future for Gaza and its people.
Ceasefire agreement under strain
As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, Netanyahu also faces the ongoing challenge of managing the fragile cease-fire with Hamas. The agreement, which began on January 19, has seen 18 hostages released. However, Hamas still controls parts of Gaza, and Netanyahu remains cautious but hopeful, stating, “We’re going to try.”
![Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks as he meets with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)](https://uslive-mediap.uslive.com/2025/02/95c9969d-d20f658501ae4d6a952981773b694980-trump_63637.jpg)
Trump warns of stronger action on hostages
Trump made it clear that if Hamas reneges on the agreement to release all hostages, the U.S. will respond more forcefully. “If they don’t release all the hostages, we will be somewhat more violent,” he warned, signaling that the U.S. will not tolerate any further delays or backtracking on the deal.
A unified stance on Iran’s nuclear threat
In addition to the Gaza situation, Netanyahu and Trump also discussed the looming threat posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Both leaders agree that Iran must never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. Netanyahu warned that Iran could have already achieved its nuclear goals if not for international intervention, but he noted that efforts to slow down the regime have been successful.
Trump’s executive order against Iran
To strengthen his stance against Iran, Trump signed an executive order aimed at putting maximum pressure on Tehran. Trump emphasized that Iran is “too close” to developing weapons-grade uranium and vowed to take decisive action to prevent them from becoming a nuclear power.
As the Middle East remains on edge, both Netanyahu and Trump are pushing for decisive actions to ensure peace and prevent nuclear proliferation. While their plans for Gaza and Iran have been met with mixed reactions, it’s clear tha