Former President Donald Trump doubled down Wednesday on his comprehensive plan for Gaza's rebuilding and the temporary relocation of Palestinians, suggesting the territory be transferred to US control following the current war with Hamas.
In a detailed statement posted on Truth Social, Trump outlined his vision where "The Gaza Strip would be turned over to the United States by Israel at the conclusion of fighting," proposing an ambitious development program for the region." He added, "The Palestinians, people like Chuck Schumer, would have already been resettled in far safer and more beautiful communities, with new and modern homes, in the region."
According to Trump, the relocation of Palestinians would be a win-win for both sides and would not entangle the US. "They would actually have a chance to be happy, safe, and free. The US, working with great development teams from all over the World, would slowly and carefully begin the construction of what would become one of the greatest and most spectacular developments of its kind on Earth. No soldiers by the US would be needed! Stability for the region would reign!!!"
Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the proposal during his Guatemala visit, The New York Times reported, emphasizing that the focus remains on reconstruction rather than permanent territorial control.
US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff provided key clarifications to Republican senators, stating that "the president has not committed to placing American forces on the ground or investing any US resources in Gaza," according to The New York Times.
The proposal, which emerged during Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's White House visit, prompted immediate regional responses. Saudi Arabia issued an "absolute rejection" of any Palestinian relocation efforts, The New York Times noted, maintaining their position that normalization with Israel depends on Palestinian statehood.
Jordan's King Abdullah and Egyptian officials aligned with this stance, expressing opposition to any displacement of Palestinians from their territory, The New York Times reported.
The initiative comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to extend the temporary pause in fighting and advance broader regional negotiations, including potential Israel-Saudi normalization discussions.
