President Donald Trump proposed on Tuesday that relocated Palestinians from Gaza be permanently resettled outside the territory, while suggesting the United States assume “ownership” for rebuilding the region. These comments received immediate backlash and could complicate the ongoing ceasefire discussions involving Hamas and Israel.
Trump shared these ideas during a meeting at the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing significant pressure from his right-wing coalition for a swift end to the temporary ceasefire against Hamas, and from citizens who are weary of the conflict and eager for the return of remaining hostages.
The initial phase of the ceasefire commenced last month, during which Hamas announced it had engaged with international mediators regarding the second phase of negotiations. The first phase successfully paused hostilities, facilitated humanitarian aid into Gaza, and allowed for the exchange of Palestinian prisoners and Israeli hostages captured during the outbreak of the conflict on October 7, 2023.
Negotiations for the second ceasefire phase are anticipated to be more challenging. The discussions may encompass additional hostage and prisoner releases, an indefinite prolongation of the truce, and who will govern Gaza when hostilities cease.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese affirmed his country’s support for a two-state solution in the Middle East. He indicated that Australia had consistently advocated for ceasefires, the release of hostages, and the provision of aid to Gaza. However, Albanese refrained from directly commenting on Trump’s remarks about Gaza.
Trump’s suggestion for the resettlement of Palestinians drew condemnation from Hamas and alarm across the Middle East. The pan-Arab media outlet Al Jazeera termed Trump’s comments a “shock announcement.” Hamas rejected the notion that residents of Gaza should vacate the territory, accusing Trump of rewarding “the Zionist occupation” instead of holding them accountable for their actions. They described the proposal as a catalyst for chaos and unrest in the region.
In response to Trump’s recommendation that the U.S. take control of Gaza, Saudi Arabia issued an emphatic statement reaffirming its longstanding commitment to establishing an independent Palestinian state. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized that Saudi Arabia would continue its efforts toward a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital and that relations with Israel would not be normalized without this condition.
The Saudi statement also reiterated their absolute rejection of any encroachments on the rights of the Palestinian people and called on the international community to alleviate their suffering amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Turning to events in Gaza, the military wing of Hamas held a funeral for Ghazi Abu Tamaa, its commander who was killed during the conflict. Footage displayed mourners honoring him with tributes as they commemorated his life amid ongoing violence and loss in the region.
Meanwhile, Qatar’s Prime Minister reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to supporting the Lebanese army during his visit to Beirut. Qatar has increasingly backed Lebanon’s military amid significant economic difficulties stemming from an ongoing crisis.
As residents in Gaza City begin to return amid a ceasefire, they face dire conditions, including mountains of garbage that pose health hazards. Residents expressed distress over the inadequate waste management that has arisen due to the ongoing conflict.
In further developments, two Israeli soldiers lost their lives following a shooting attack in the West Bank, an incident that occurred within the context of heightened tensions after Hamas’ October offensive. As violence has escalated in the region since that event, the Israeli military conducted operations aimed at suppressing militant activities.
Regarding the ongoing conflict, Hamas confirmed the initiation of talks for the second phase of the ceasefire, accusing Israel of failing to comply with earlier agreements surrounding humanitarian aid. The negotiations are likely to be more complex, dealing with further hostages and potential military withdrawals.
In a strategic move, the Palestinian Authority established a committee to oversee recovery efforts in Gaza, though its ability to operate there remains uncertain due to Hamas’ control over the region. The authority aims to coordinate essential services and assistance to those affected by the conflict.
Turkey announced plans to welcome fifteen Palestinian prisoners deported as part of the ceasefire agreement. Their arrival will be facilitated by the Turkish intelligence agency to ensure their safety and security upon their relocation, indicating Turkey’s continued support for Palestinian welfare.
Lastly, family members of Thai hostages, recently released by Hamas, were able to visit them in an Israeli medical facility. This release occurred in line with a ceasefire agreement amid the backdrop of continuing negotiations surrounding hostage situations and humanitarian aid initiatives.
