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President Donald Trump announced plans for American control of the Gaza Strip, proposing to transform the war-torn territory into what he envisions as a "Riviera of the Middle East." The announcement, made during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marks a significant departure from decades of American diplomatic positions.
"The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it too," Trump declared at the White House, suggesting that most current Palestinian residents should not return to their homes. When questioned about potential US military involvement, Trump did not rule out deploying American troops, stating, "As far as Gaza is concerned, we'll do what is necessary."
The proposal has sparked immediate concern from regional allies and international observers. Arab nations, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, have already rejected similar suggestions, with Saudi Arabia reaffirming its position that normalization with Israel depends on establishing an independent Palestinian state. "Saudi Arabia will continue its relentless efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital," the Saudi Foreign Ministry stated on social media.
Trump's vision for Gaza's future appears rooted in his real estate background, with his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff noting that "this guy knows real estate." The president described his plan as creating an "international, unbelievable place," though he later added that Palestinians could be among those living there.
Legal experts and regional analysts point out that forced population transfers are prohibited under international law. As one Arab official described the proposal, it was "rough, raw, hard to grasp and digest," adding they "need clarity and further development to become understood."
Even within Trump's own party, the proposal has met with skepticism. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) expressed doubt about American public support: "I think most South Carolinians would probably not be excited about sending Americans to take over Gaza."
The timing of this announcement coincides with delicate ceasefire negotiations and hostage release efforts. Trump addressed this ongoing crisis, stating, "We'd like to get all of the hostages, and if we don't, it will just make us somewhat more violent."
This situation could influence potential normalization talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia, and ongoing concerns about Iran's nuclear program.
