Trump Proposes Gaza Resettlement Plan, Rejects Palestinian Right of Return
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Palestinians would not be allowed to return to Gaza under his proposed plan, framing it as a “real estate development for the future.”
In an interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier, Trump said, “I would own it,” referring to his vision for Gaza. He suggested that up to six alternative locations outside of Gaza could be designated for Palestinian resettlement. His remarks sparked widespread criticism, particularly from the Arab world and the international community.
When asked whether Palestinians would have the right to return to Gaza, which has been heavily damaged by Israeli military operations since October 2023, Trump responded, “No, they wouldn’t, because they’re going to have much better housing.” He emphasized that the destruction in Gaza made it “uninhabitable” and claimed his plan would provide a more permanent solution for displaced Palestinians.
Trump first introduced this controversial proposal during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, drawing immediate backlash from Palestinian leaders and neighboring countries. His plan also calls for Egypt and Jordan to accommodate displaced Palestinians, an idea that has been strongly rejected by both nations.
Following Trump’s statements, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty traveled to Washington for discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Meanwhile, Jordan’s King Abdullah II was scheduled to meet with Trump to address concerns over the proposal.
Vision for “New Communities”
During the interview, Trump elaborated on his plan to build “beautiful communities” for Gaza’s more than two million residents. “There could be five, six, or maybe two [sites], but we’ll build safe communities a little further away from the danger,” he said.
Positioning the initiative as a long-term investment, Trump described it as a “real estate development for the future,” stating that the land in Gaza could become a valuable asset. “It would be a beautiful piece of land. No big money spent,” he added.
Global Backlash
Trump’s announcement that the U.S. would “take over Gaza,” clear the debris, and transform it into the “Riviera of the Middle East” has drawn widespread condemnation. While he initially suggested that Palestinians could remain in Gaza under his plan, his later statements indicated a shift toward their complete relocation.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu welcomed Trump’s proposal, calling it “revolutionary” and “a much better vision for Israel.” However, much of the international community, including Arab nations and European leaders, has rejected the plan outright.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz denounced the proposal as “a scandal,” warning that forcibly relocating Palestinians would violate international law.
Ceasefire Concerns and Regional Implications
Trump’s proposal has also raised concerns about its impact on the fragile six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Critics fear that the plan could escalate tensions and undermine efforts toward a lasting peace agreement.
Despite the backlash, Trump remains confident that Egypt and Jordan—both major recipients of U.S. military aid—could be convinced to cooperate. “I think I could make a deal with Jordan. I think I could make a deal with Egypt. You know, we give them billions and billions of dollars a year,” he said.
In previous remarks, Trump likened Gaza’s potential to Monaco, while his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, suggested that clearing the area of civilians could turn it into prime “waterfront property.”
Conclusion
Trump’s controversial Gaza resettlement plan has intensified geopolitical tensions, with strong opposition from Arab nations and global leaders. While Israel’s leadership views the proposal favorably, its feasibility and alignment with international law remain highly contentious.
