Former President Donald Trump recently stated that he wants the United States to take control of Canada and Gaza, claiming both regions would be better off under American rule.
In a pre-recorded interview with Fox News before Super Bowl LIX, Trump said he was considering making Canada the 51st state. He justified this by alleging that the U.S. loses $200 billion annually in trade with Canada. “If they are a 51st state, I don’t mind doing it,” he remarked, referring to financial relations between the two nations.
Trump also threatened new tariffs on Canada and Mexico but agreed to delay them for 30 days after both countries committed to enhancing border security.
Regarding Gaza, Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he was committed to “owning” the Palestinian territory. He proposed rebuilding the region but suggested that other Middle Eastern nations could take responsibility for sections of it. He emphasized preventing Hamas from returning to power, arguing that Gaza was already destroyed and required complete redevelopment.
According to Trump, many Palestinians would prefer to relocate rather than return to Gaza. “The only reason they talk about returning is that they have no other option,” he said. “If given an alternative, they wouldn’t go back.”
Trump’s statements have sparked controversy. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged Trump’s remarks about absorbing Canada, confirming that they were being taken seriously. Meanwhile, Israel has shown interest in resettling Gaza’s population, though Hamas and other nations oppose the plan.
In response to the ongoing situation, Egypt has scheduled an emergency Arab summit on February 27 to address the region’s latest developments. Fighting between Israel and Hamas has paused due to a ceasefire, with hostages being released gradually. Over the weekend, three Israeli hostages were freed, though they appeared severely malnourished after their captivity.
Trump compared the released hostages’ conditions to Holocaust survivors, expressing his frustration with Hamas. “They were in horrible condition,” he said. “They looked emaciated, like Holocaust survivors. I don’t know how much longer we can take this.”
Trump’s remarks have ignited debates about the feasibility and consequences of his proposed actions regarding Canada and Gaza. Political leaders and international organizations continue to monitor the situation closely.
