President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House|@WhiteHouse|X
President Donald Trump proposed on Tuesday that the US take control of Gaza and relocate its 2 million Palestinian residents to neighboring Egypt and Jordan.
Speaking at a White House press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump suggested transforming Gaza into a tourism and business hub, calling it “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
He claimed Palestinians would benefit from resettlement, suggesting regional countries could finance it. He also stated that everybody he has spoken to “loves” the idea of the US owning Gaza and creating job opportunities there.
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Trump’s suggestion sparked immediate rejection from Hamas, Egypt and Jordan. Critics argue that a forced relocation of Palestinians would violate international law, including the US-ratified Geneva Conventions.
The announcement comes as the US pushes for the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage negotiations. Officials worry Trump’s comments could hinder a permanent ceasefire.
Tensions remain high over the ongoing conflict and regional instability, which has resulted in over 47,000 deaths in Gaza.