United States President Donald Trump has revealed his plan for Gaza, suggesting that parts of the war-torn enclave could be handed over to other Middle Eastern countries for redevelopment.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump described Gaza as a “big real estate site” and proposed that regional states could take responsibility for rebuilding it.
“As far as us rebuilding it, we may give it [Gaza] to other states in the Middle East to build sections of it; other people may do it, through our auspices,” Trump said while en route to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl.
“If we could give them a home in a safer area – the only reason they are talking about returning to Gaza is they don’t have an alternative. When they have an alternative, they don’t want to return to Gaza,” he added.
Trump’s remarks follow his recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where he announced plans for the US to “take over” Gaza and transform it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” His proposal included relocating Palestinian residents to other Arab states—a move that sparked widespread condemnation from Arab nations and drew criticism from some European governments.
Despite the backlash, Trump doubled down on his stance, asserting that the US remains committed to controlling Gaza to prevent Hamas from returning.
“There’s nothing to move back into. The place is a demolition site,” he said. “But we’re committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn’t move back.”
His statements have prompted efforts by other US officials to clarify the administration’s position, but controversy surrounding the plan continues to grow.