Former US President Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of controversy after suggesting that the United States should “take over” and “own” Gaza, resettling its population in the process. His comments come amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, raising questions about the region’s post-war future.
The United Nations estimates that two-thirds of Gaza’s buildings have been destroyed or severely damaged after 15 months of conflict, making reconstruction a massive challenge. However, Trump’s proposal—which challenges decades of US foreign policy—has been met with shock and condemnation from Arab nations, US allies, and international leaders.
Trump’s Vision: A US-Owned ‘Riviera of the Middle East’
Speaking in Washington on Tuesday, Trump floated the idea of depopulating Gaza, claiming that rebuilding the region from scratch would be easier without displaced civilians sheltering in the rubble. His long-time real estate instincts surfaced as he envisioned transforming Gaza into an American-owned resort hub, promising investment opportunities, thousands of jobs, and an attractive destination for global residents.
Trump’s former Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, acknowledged the monumental task of clearing debris, removing unexploded munitions, and restoring essential infrastructure like water, power, schools, and hospitals—a process that could take years. Instead of keeping Palestinians within Gaza during reconstruction, Trump proposed encouraging them to leave permanently.
Outrage and Rejection from Arab Nations & US Allies
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the idea “worth paying attention to,” but Arab nations swiftly rejected it, as did many of America’s allies. Egypt and Jordan, whom Trump suggested should take in up to 1.8 million Gazan refugees, strongly opposed the plan, citing their own economic and political challenges.
While Trump did not advocate forced deportation, which would be a clear violation of international law, his comments have fueled fears that Palestinians could face long-term displacement.
Legal and Political Roadblocks to a US Takeover of Gaza
Experts widely agree that the US has no legal claim over Gaza, making Trump’s proposal nearly impossible to implement. Gaza remains recognized as part of Palestine by three-quarters of UN member states, though the US does not acknowledge Palestinian sovereignty.
Since Israel withdrew troops and settlements from Gaza in 2005, it has maintained strict control over its borders, airspace, and maritime access, effectively isolating the region. Even before the recent war, Gaza was often referred to as “an open-air prison” due to Israeli and Egyptian blockades that restrict movement in and out.
Could Trump’s Comments Impact the Israel-Hamas Ceasefire?
Trump’s remarks come as negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are underway. Analysts warn that if Hamas perceives a long-term US-backed depopulation plan, it may refuse to engage in talks and continue holding Israeli hostages.
Netanyahu, who has faced internal pressure over the ceasefire deal, now has a new political incentive to prolong negotiations. His right-wing allies have welcomed Trump’s comments, which could bolster his position and reduce the risk of cabinet resignations.
Trump’s Position on the West Bank Raises Further Concerns
When asked if the US should recognize Israeli sovereignty over the occupied West Bank, Trump hinted at an upcoming decision, stating he would make an announcement “within four weeks.”
Such a move would be a major shift in US policy, further undermining the long-standing two-state solution that envisions Gaza and the West Bank as part of a future Palestinian state. While previous peace talks assumed Israel would retain some settlements in exchange for land swaps, full recognition of Israeli control over the West Bank would be an unprecedented escalation.
What Happens Next?
Trump’s comments add new uncertainty to Gaza’s post-war future, throwing a potential wrench into ceasefire negotiations while exposing deep divisions between Israel, its allies, and the Arab world.
As global leaders react, it remains unclear whether Trump seriously intends to push for a US-controlled Gaza or if this is another bold opening stance in future diplomatic negotiations. Either way, the political and humanitarian implications of his remarks are already reverberating worldwide.