Trump Suggests U.S. Take Control of Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed that the United States take ownership of the Gaza Strip and oversee its redevelopment. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump stated, “The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too.”
Vision for Gaza: Economic Development & Stability
Trump suggested that under U.S. control, Gaza could be transformed into a thriving economic hub. He emphasized dismantling unexploded bombs and rebuilding infrastructure, calling it “the Riviera of the Middle East.” He also noted that Palestinians could be among the people living there.
Political Backlash & International Response
The proposal sparked immediate criticism. Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy dismissed the idea, saying on X, “We aren’t taking over Gaza. Trump has totally lost it.” Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to an independent Palestinian state, stating that “a permanent and just peace cannot be achieved without the Palestinian people obtaining their legitimate rights.”
Netanyahu’s Response & the ICC Arrest Warrant
Netanyahu responded positively to Trump’s remarks, stating the idea was “worth paying attention to.” He emphasized Israel’s focus on ensuring Gaza is no longer a security threat. Netanyahu’s visit to Washington comes after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him for alleged war crimes—a move the U.S. has condemned.
Context: Ongoing War & Humanitarian Crisis
Gaza, a 41km-long strip of land home to nearly 2 million Palestinians, has been severely impacted by the war between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7, 2023. The conflict has resulted in over 46,600 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s health authorities.
U.S. Withdrawal from UN Palestinian Refugee Agency
Earlier in the day, Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the U.S. from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and the UN Human Rights Council, citing concerns over their treatment of Israel.
Future of Gaza & U.S. Policy
Trump’s comments mark a significant shift in U.S. policy, suggesting direct American involvement in the future of Gaza. However, with widespread opposition from international leaders and Arab nations, it remains to be seen how feasible or realistic his proposal is.
