President Trump made a bold statement on Tuesday, suggesting that the U.S. should “take over” the Gaza Strip and “own it.” During a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump proposed that Palestinians in Gaza should be resettled elsewhere, arguing that they’ve “lived a miserable existence” in the region. He said Palestinians should be relocated permanently to “nice homes” and not go through the process of rebuilding Gaza, which he described as “dangerous” due to unexploded bombs and other hazards.
Trump’s plan involves the U.S. taking responsibility for the Gaza Strip by clearing the area, dismantling the weapons, and rebuilding it. He envisions creating an economic hub with jobs and housing. He emphasized that this would bring long-term stability to the region and prevent history from repeating itself.
Netanyahu, attending the meeting as the first foreign leader to visit Trump during his second term, appeared open to Trump’s ideas. He mentioned that they were discussing the plan and exploring it further. On whether U.S. troops would be deployed, Trump said they would do “whatever is necessary” to ensure the success of the project. He also suggested that Gaza should become a sort of international hub, where people from around the world, including Palestinians, could live.
However, Trump’s comments have sparked strong opposition. Many Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, have rejected the idea of resettling Palestinians. They argue that the Palestinians should have their own state. Hamas, a militant group in Gaza, called the idea “ridiculous” and said it could escalate tensions in the region. U.S. politician Rep. Rashida Tlaib also criticized Trump’s proposal, accusing him of promoting ethnic cleansing.
Trump’s stance on Gaza follows a long history of conflict in the region. Gaza, a 139-square-mile area, has been contested since Israel took control of it in 1967. Trump believes that Palestinians don’t want to return to Gaza and should be permanently relocated to safer areas.
While Trump insists his plan is aimed at stabilizing the region, it remains controversial. Many question the feasibility of his ideas, and critics are concerned about the long-term implications for Palestinians and the broader Middle East.
