President Donald Trump unveiled a bold plan on Tuesday for the United States to assume control of Gaza, relocate Palestinians to other countries — regardless of their willingness to leave — and transform the territory into the "Riviera of the Middle East."
Speaking at a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump’s announcement stunned many present. He described his vision to clear unexploded bombs and debris from the war-torn region and undertake a complete economic redevelopment, although he provided no specifics on how the plan would be executed or how to relocate over two million Palestinians.
"The US will take control of the Gaza Strip and completely revamp it. We'll own it," Trump stated, claiming support from top Middle Eastern leaders and pressuring Egypt and Jordan to accept displaced Gazans, despite their rejection of the proposal.
Trump hinted at long-term American involvement, stating that Gaza would be turned into the "Riviera of the Middle East." Netanyahu praised the plan, calling it a "historic opportunity" that could change the region's dynamics.
However, Trump's comments sparked immediate backlash. Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour rejected the plan, asserting Palestinians would not abandon their homeland. Gazans, too, criticized the proposal, with resident Hatem Azzam stating, "Trump sees Gaza as a pile of garbage — but it’s our home."
Despite ambiguity around execution, Trump suggested US troops might be deployed if needed, referring to Gaza as a location with great real estate potential, reminiscent of Monaco.