US President Donald Trump announced that the United States would “take over” the Gaza Strip, dismantle its devastated infrastructure, remove dangerous weapons, and oversee its economic redevelopment—potentially with the deployment of American troops. The move, widely seen as an unprecedented occupation, has sparked immediate global condemnation, raising serious legal and ethical concerns about forced displacement, sovereignty, and the long-term fate of Palestinians.
Trump’s comments, made during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, signaled a radical shift in US policy. “We’ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site and getting rid of the destroyed buildings. Create an economic development that will supply unlimited numbers of jobs and housing for the people of the area,” Trump said.
Trump suggested that Palestinians should permanently leave Gaza, implying that their return is neither feasible nor desirable. “I don’t think people should be going back to Gaza,” Trump stated, arguing that the region had been “unlucky” for them. Instead, he proposed relocating the Palestinian population to neighboring countries like Jordan and Egypt—an idea that has already been rejected by both nations.
His vision for Gaza, described as a potential new “Riviera,” paints a picture of large-scale economic exploitation rather than genuine humanitarian relief. “I do see a long-term ownership position, and I see it bringing great stability to that part of the Middle East, and maybe the entire Middle East,” Trump added, signaling a possible American land grab.
When asked whether he would deploy U.S. troops to Gaza, Trump left the door wide open. “As far as Gaza is concerned, we’ll do what is necessary. If it’s necessary, we’ll do that. We’re going to take over that piece that we’re going to develop it,” he asserted.
His statement has raised alarms among military and diplomatic circles, given his past criticism of US involvement in prolonged conflicts in the Middle East. Analysts warn that such a move would ignite further unrest, drawing in regional actors and escalating tensions beyond control.
In addition to his Gaza proposal, Trump announced the US withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which he called “anti-Semitic” and accused of funneling money to Hamas. These moves, widely seen as catering to Israeli hardliners, will further isolate Washington on the global stage.
Moreover, Trump vowed to reimpose “maximum pressure” on Iran, promising the most aggressive sanctions possible to drive Iranian oil exports to zero. “We will diminish the regime’s capacity to fund terror throughout the region and the world,” he said, reigniting fears of a new confrontation with Tehran.
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