President Donald Trump on Tuesday proposed a controversial plan for the United States to take control of the Gaza Strip, suggesting a U.S.-led reconstruction effort with possible American military involvement.
Speaking at a White House press conference alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump described his vision for Gaza as a transformed region, which he likened to the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
“We will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it too,” Trump said, explaining that the U.S. would be responsible for clearing unexploded bombs, dismantling weapons, and rebuilding the area. He envisioned a long-term ownership that would create thousands of jobs and bring stability to the region.
However, Trump also proposed that Palestinians currently living in Gaza should permanently leave, stating, “Gaza is not a place for people to be living.” He suggested they be relocated to a “beautiful piece of land” elsewhere, arguing that many residents remained in Gaza only because they had “no alternative.”
His plan was met with immediate backlash. Hamas dismissed it as "ridiculous," while Palestinian-American Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib accused Trump of advocating for “ethnic cleansing.” Meanwhile, Egypt and Jordan have rejected accepting more Palestinian refugees, fearing destabilization.
Despite the criticism, Trump remained firm, emphasizing that his approach was a humanitarian one, aimed at providing a safer and more prosperous future for Palestinians. “I envision world people living there,” Trump added, suggesting that the Gaza Strip should become an international community, including Palestinians and others from around the globe.
Netanyahu, who was present for the conference, did not directly endorse Trump’s ideas but praised his leadership, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 terrorist attacks on Israel. The two leaders discussed ongoing ceasefire efforts and their shared concerns about Iran.
