Trump Proposes US Control of Gaza, Sparks Global Outcry
In a move met with widespread condemnation, US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Israel would hand over control of the Gaza Strip to the United States once fighting ends and Palestinians are resettled elsewhere. Trump envisions a transformed Gaza, dubbed the “Riviera of the Middle East,” citing no need for US troops on the ground.
Trump’s proposal, announced just a day after global criticism of his initial plan to seize and develop Gaza, prompted Israel to order its army to prepare for the “voluntary departure” of Gaza’s residents.
Gaza Resettlement and US Control
“The Gaza Strip would be turned over to the United States by Israel at the conclusion of fighting,” Trump declared. He added that Palestinians “would have already been resettled in far safer and more beautiful communities, with new and modern homes, in the region.”
Trump emphasized, “No soldiers by the US would be needed!”
Israel Prepares for Exits
Responding to Trump’s proposal, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz ordered the military to develop a plan to facilitate the voluntary emigration of Gaza residents. “I welcome President Trump’s bold plan,” Katz stated on X. “Gaza residents should be allowed the freedom to leave and emigrate, as is the norm around the world.”
Katz outlined plans for departure through land crossings, sea, and air, highlighting various exit options.
Global Backlash
Trump’s surprise announcement, which ignited anger across the Middle East, came amidst Israeli and Hamas preparations for ceasefire talks in Doha. These talks were aimed at facilitating a full Israeli withdrawal and bringing an end to the conflict.
Regional power Saudi Arabia firmly rejected Trump’s proposal. Jordan’s King Abdullah, slated to meet Trump at the White House next week, condemned any attempts at land annexation and Palestinian displacement.
“We will not sell our land for you, real estate developer,” proclaimed Abdel Ghani, a Gaza City resident living amidst the ruins of his home. “We are hungry, homeless, and desperate but we are not collaborators. If (Trump) wants to help, let him come and rebuild for us here.”
The international community is closely watching the situation as tensions mount in the region.
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