Trump’s Gaza ‘take over’ plan sparks global outcry

President Donald Trump has unveiled a contentious plan for the Gaza Strip, drawing swift condemnation from Palestinian leaders, Arab nations, and human rights advocates.

"The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip .. .We'll own it,” said Trump.

“I don’t think people should be going back to Gaza. I think that Gaza has been very unlucky for them,” said Trump.

“They’ve lived like hell. They lived like you’re living in hell. Gaza is not a place for people to be living, and the only reason they want to go back, and I believe this strongly, is because they have no alternative.”

During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump proposed that the United States assume control of Gaza to clear debris and establish economic opportunities through housing and job development.

“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,” said Trump.

Central to Trump’s plan is the relocation of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents to neighbouring countries such as Egypt and Jordan. 

Critics, including Palestinian officials, have denounced this move as ethnic cleansing and a violation of international law. 

“Trump's statements are racist, and a blatant attempt to liquidate our Palestinian cause and deny our established national rights,” Hamas Political Bureau spokesperson Izzat al-Rishq said in a statement.

Human rights groups also warn that forced displacement could undermine any future two-state solution.

Trump described a vision of Gaza as a thriving hub for international residents, including Palestinians who choose to return. 

“You take certain areas and you build really good-quality housing, like a beautiful town, like some place where they can live and not die, because Gaza is a guarantee that they’re going to end up dying,” said Trump.

“The same thing is going to happen again.”

Trump hinted at real estate investments and added that the U.S. military may be deployed if necessary to secure his plans. 

Netanyahu acknowledged that such a plan could dramatically reshape the region, but he did not commit to full support.

“He [Trump] sees a different future for that piece of land,” said Netanyahu.

“It’s worth paying attention to this. We’re talking about it. It’s something that could change history.”

Observers question the plan’s feasibility, citing legal, logistical, and geopolitical hurdles. 

Experts note that relocating so many people would require cooperation from Egypt, Jordan, and other countries, many of which have already dismissed the proposal. 

The international community awaits further developments, with many leaders calling for diplomatic solutions that respect Palestinian rights and promote regional peace.