Trump's Proposal to Take Over Gaza Sparks Global Backlash//

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//Trump's Proposal to Take Over Gaza Sparks Global Backlash//

President Donald Trump’s latest proposal—that the United States should “take over” the Gaza Strip and resettle its Palestinian residents—has drawn swift and widespread condemnation from allies and adversaries alike.

During a White House press conference alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump laid out a vision where the U.S. would assume control of Gaza, clear out its war-torn infrastructure, and transform it into a thriving economic hub. Calling the plan a way to bring prosperity to the region, Trump stated, “We’ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons, level the site, and create economic development that will supply unlimited numbers of jobs.” Netanyahu, while not directly endorsing the idea, appeared amused and smiled at several points during Trump's remarks.

Strong International Rejection

The proposal came as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remained in place, with hostages being exchanged for prisoners. However, Trump’s remarks were met with immediate rejection from key global players.

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance against any forced relocation of Gaza’s population, emphasizing the need for reconstruction without displacement. Saudi Arabia, a critical U.S. ally, issued a firm statement opposing any infringement on Palestinian rights, reaffirming its support for an independent Palestinian state. “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stresses its absolute rejection of any efforts to displace the Palestinian people or annex their lands,” the statement read.

Other world leaders, including those from Australia, Germany, Ireland, China, and New Zealand, reiterated their commitment to a two-state solution. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese dismissed the idea, saying, “Australia’s position remains unchanged—Gaza is Palestinian land.” Similarly, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called the idea “absurd,” adding that any talk of deporting Gazans was unacceptable.

Palestinian Leaders and Hamas Respond

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned Trump’s comments, urging the United Nations to intervene and safeguard Palestinian rights. Hamas, the militant group governing Gaza, called the proposal “a recipe for chaos and regional tension.” In a statement, the group criticized Trump for “rewarding, not punishing, Israeli aggression.”

Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel led to an intense Israeli military response. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 47,000 Palestinian casualties, according to local health officials, with much of Gaza’s infrastructure in ruins. The war has displaced nearly 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.

Domestic Backlash in the U.S.

Trump’s proposal was met with fierce opposition from American politicians across party lines. Democratic Senator Chris Coons called the idea “offensive, dangerous, and foolish,” arguing that it undermines the U.S.’s global reputation. Representative Rashida Tlaib, a Palestinian American, accused Trump of advocating for “ethnic cleansing” by suggesting the forced resettlement of Gaza’s population.

Trump has a history of making controversial territorial proposals, including suggesting that the U.S. purchase Greenland and annex Canada. However, it remains unclear whether his Gaza proposal was a serious policy suggestion or an attempt to influence negotiations.

With world leaders rejecting the notion outright, Trump's remarks have only added to the growing international scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy under his administration. As the situation in Gaza remains dire, global focus continues to be on immediate humanitarian relief rather than radical geopolitical shifts.