President Donald Trump has declared that the United States will assume control over the Gaza Strip and lead its reconstruction efforts, focusing on removing unexploded ordnance and developing new infrastructure. "The U.S. will take charge of Gaza and we will work on it as well. We will own it, and we will be responsible for dismantling all the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons in the area," Trump emphasized.
Trump outlined plans to clear the area, removing destroyed buildings to foster economic growth that provides limitless jobs and housing for local residents. According to reports from AP, Trump suggested U.S. control of Gaza will follow the relocation of the Palestinian population to other countries.
During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump confirmed that the plan includes dismantling unexploded ordnance and leveling destroyed buildings to pave the way for economic development, creating jobs and housing for the region's inhabitants. The proposal has faced opposition from Arab allies like Egypt and Jordan, who warn it could destabilize the region and undermine the peace process. Trump also hinted at the possibility of deploying U.S. troops in Gaza if necessary to ensure security.
Netanyahu, expressing support for the initiative, praised Trump as Israel's "best friend." This Tuesday, Trump reiterated his commitment to U.S. control over Gaza, asserting that "it will be ours," though he provided no further details on how Washington would manage the territory, as reported by ABC News. Standing beside him, Netanyahu smiled at the statement, acknowledging Trump as the first foreign leader to be received in the Oval Office since Trump's return to the presidency. "He is the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House," Netanyahu remarked in response.
The U.S. president also emphasized that Palestinians displaced by the Gaza conflict should not return to the Strip, even post-reconstruction, advocating for their permanent resettlement elsewhere. According to White House plans, this would increase the refugee population in Israel's neighboring Arab countries, particularly in Lebanon and Jordan. "My hope is that we can build something really good, something that makes them not want to return. Why would they want to go back? That place has been hell," Trump stated during his meeting with the Israeli leader.
In January, prior to his inauguration, Trump warned the Islamist group Hamas that chaos would erupt in the Middle East if hostages were not released by January 20. "If they're not back by the time I take office, hell will break loose in the Middle East, and it won't be good for Hamas, or frankly, for anyone. Chaos will erupt," he declared during a press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
That same month, Israel and Hamas finalized a peace agreement in Gaza after the Palestinian group responded with 'no comment' to mediators, according to a source from the Islamist group cited by EFE News Agency. The historic ceasefire ended 15 months of devastating conflict that claimed tens of thousands of lives in Gaza.
Key Questions about U.S. Involvement in Gaza
What are the main components of Trump's plan for Gaza?
Trump's plan involves the U.S. taking control of Gaza, dismantling unexploded ordnance, leveling destroyed buildings, and fostering economic development to create jobs and housing.
How have Arab allies reacted to this proposal?
Arab allies such as Egypt and Jordan have expressed opposition, warning that the plan could destabilize the region and undermine the peace process.
What has been Prime Minister Netanyahu's response to Trump's announcement?
Netanyahu has supported the initiative, calling Trump Israel's "best friend" and acknowledging his role as a key ally.
What are Trump's views on the resettlement of displaced Palestinians?
Trump has advocated for the permanent resettlement of displaced Palestinians in neighboring Arab countries rather than their return to Gaza.