Washington, DC [US], February 5: US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement regarding the United States’ plans to “take over” the Gaza Strip has sparked widespread backlash from various political leaders and international bodies. The controversial statement was made during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump suggested that the US would assume responsibility for dismantling weapons, clearing destroyed buildings, and initiating economic development in Gaza, with the aim of providing jobs and housing.
Key reactions to Trump’s proposal:
- Hamas: Senior Hamas officials, including Sami Abu Zuhri, called the proposal “ridiculous and absurd,” warning that it could spark chaos and tension in the region. A Hamas spokesperson also accused Trump’s stance of aligning with Israeli right-wing policies, aimed at displacing Palestinians.
- Palestinian Leadership: Palestinian leaders, including PLO Secretary-General Hussein al-Sheikh, rejected any notion of displacing Palestinians, affirming their commitment to the two-state solution as the path to peace. Riyad Mansour, head of the Palestinian delegation to the UN, urged for Palestinians in Gaza to return to their original homes in what is now Israel.
- Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia reiterated its firm stance on the creation of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, rejecting any normalization of relations with Israel until this goal is achieved.
- US Politicians: US Senator Chris Murphy criticized the proposal, arguing that an invasion of Gaza would lead to massive casualties and further conflict. Senator Van Hollen decried it as a form of “ethnic cleansing.”
- International Reaction: Muslim advocacy groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), condemned the plan, calling it unacceptable and an attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians. International figures such as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and China’s Foreign Ministry expressed opposition to the forced transfer of Gaza’s population, advocating for a peaceful, political resolution.
- Australia & Other Nations: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated support for a two-state solution but refrained from commenting directly on Trump’s proposal. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called Trump’s remarks “unacceptable,” emphasizing the need for Palestinian inclusion in any peace process.
Trump’s announcement, alongside his vision for a potential broader peace deal, has drawn heavy criticism from many corners, including those advocating for Palestinian self-determination and international law.