WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump boldly declared that Palestinians displaced by the Gaza conflict should be permanently kicked out of the territory. He went further, proposing that the U.S. take charge and redevelop the region, completely transforming it.
In a heated discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump unapologetically stated, “I don’t think people should be going back. You can’t live in Gaza right now. We need another location.” He even had the audacity to suggest the U.S. could seize Gaza and turn it into a lavish resort, calling it “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
Trump did not provide details on how the U.S. would acquire the land or where the 1.8 million displaced Palestinians would go. He suggested neighboring countries like Jordan and Egypt could take them in, though both nations have rejected the idea.
The proposal comes as efforts to extend a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas continue. Talks are also underway to secure the release of remaining hostages in Gaza and increase humanitarian aid to the region after over 15 months of conflict.
Egypt, Jordan, and other U.S. allies have warned that relocating Palestinians could destabilize the Middle East and undermine long-standing efforts for a two-state solution. Saudi Arabia reiterated its support for an independent Palestinian state, calling it a “firm and unwavering position.”
Meanwhile, Trump signed a memorandum reinstating a “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran. The move aims to cut Iran’s oil exports to zero and prevent the country from developing nuclear weapons. Trump said the U.S. has the right to block Iranian oil sales and expressed hope for a deal with Tehran.
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The president also halted U.S. funding for the UN Palestinian relief agency, UNRWA, and withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council, citing bias against Israel.
Trump’s Gaza proposal and Iran policy have drawn mixed reactions, with critics questioning the feasibility and implications of his plans.
