www.aljazeera.com
The White House press secretary summarized President Donald Trump’s vision for the future of the Gaza Strip, likely referencing statements made in February 2025. The plan outlines a controversial approach to post-war reconstruction.
Key Points of the Proposal:
- De-population and Relocation: Trump proposes the permanent resettlement of the 1.8 million Palestinians living in Gaza to other countries, such as Jordan and Egypt. He argues this is necessary because the territory is currently uninhabitable due to destruction from the war.
- U.S. "Ownership" and Management: Trump suggested the United States could take "long-term ownership" of the Gaza Strip. He envisions the U.S. governing the territory, similar to a real estate development project, to ensure stability and economic viability. This includes the potential deployment of U.S. troops if necessary.
- Economic Redevelopment: The vision includes leveling damaged buildings to create an economic hub or a " Riviera of the Middle East." This would involve clearing rubble, demining the area, and building modern infrastructure, potentially funded by regional allies.
- Rejection of Palestinian Return: Under this plan, Palestinians would not be allowed to return to Gaza. Trump has stated that neighboring countries should permanently house them, arguing that Gaza has become a symbol of death and failure.
- Humanitarian Aid Distribution: Trump has suggested that aid distribution could be managed by new organizations, moving away from UN agencies (like UNRWA) and the existing Hamas-controlled bureaucracy to prevent aid diversion.
Context and Controversy:
This vision has been met with international rejection. Regional leaders, including those in Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, have firmly opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians, viewing it as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability. Palestinian leadership and human rights organizations have condemned the plan as an attempt at ethnic cleansing and a violation of the right to self-determination. While U.S. officials have clarified that the plan is a proposal to stimulate discussion rather than a formal order, the idea remains central to Trump’s proposed strategy for ending the conflict and ensuring Israeli security.
