Trump Suggests US Should Take Control of Gaza After Meeting Netanyahu
Washington: In a striking proposal during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US President Donald Trump suggested that the United States should assume control of the Gaza Strip. Speaking at a joint press conference, Trump outlined his vision of “owning” Gaza, clearing the war-ravaged region of unexploded ordnance, leveling damaged structures, and fostering economic development.
The proposal comes at a critical juncture, as efforts to transition from a temporary ceasefire to a long-term peace agreement between Israel and Hamas remain uncertain. Trump’s remarks were met with mixed reactions, with Netanyahu praising his leadership, while Palestinian officials and neighboring countries rejected the idea outright.
Trump reiterated his belief that the current inhabitants of Gaza should not be part of any reconstruction effort. Instead, he suggested that Palestinians should relocate to neighboring Middle Eastern nations, including Egypt and Jordan. This notion has been firmly rejected by both governments, as well as by Palestinian representatives, who insist that any resolution must respect their right to remain in their homeland.
“The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it, too. We’ll own it,” Trump stated, positioning his country as a key player in the rebuilding process. He emphasized that clearing debris, securing the territory, and launching economic projects could bring stability to the region.
However, his suggestion that Palestinians should be resettled elsewhere has drawn sharp criticism. A Palestinian resident of Rafah described Trump’s proposal as dismissive of the people who have endured the conflict.
Netanyahu Praises Trump’s Approach
Netanyahu, in response, hailed Trump as “Israel’s greatest friend” and expressed optimism about the direction of the talks. He argued that the US president’s strategy could redefine the region’s history and emphasized the importance of strong American-Israeli coordination.
The Israeli leader also took a veiled jab at former US President Joe Biden, with whom he had a strained relationship. Netanyahu suggested that Israel’s adversaries had exploited diplomatic gaps in the past but now faced a united front under Trump.
Meanwhile, discussions over the next phase of the ceasefire are ongoing. Israel has dispatched negotiators to Qatar to advance the process, while Hamas representatives have stressed the importance of addressing urgent humanitarian concerns, including shelter and reconstruction.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
While the temporary truce has facilitated hostage exchanges between Israel and Hamas, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire. UN agencies have reported worsening conditions in areas like the Jenin refugee camp, which has seen ongoing Israeli military operations.
The initial ceasefire agreement has enabled the release of 18 hostages from Hamas custody in exchange for 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. However, Israeli officials state that 76 hostages remain in captivity, including 34 whom they believe to be deceased. Families of those still held by Hamas have urged all parties to sustain negotiations for further releases.
Despite the temporary pause in fighting, Israel has continued military operations in the occupied West Bank. The UN has warned that the situation in Jenin is approaching catastrophic levels.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The conflict, which began with Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, has resulted in significant casualties. Official figures indicate that 1,210 people, mostly civilians, were killed in Israel. The subsequent Israeli military response has led to at least 47,518 deaths in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
As discussions progress, the question of Gaza’s governance remains contentious. While Trump’s suggestion of US intervention has found favor with Netanyahu, it faces strong opposition from Palestinians and neighboring countries. The coming weeks will determine whether ceasefire negotiations lead to a long-term resolution or if geopolitical tensions escalate further.
Also see:
Auspicious Amrit Snan at Maha Kumbh 2025
Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket Launch Delayed
China Considers TikTok US Sale to Elon Musk
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A Historic Convergence of Devotion and Tradition
—————————————————————
It would mean the world to us if you follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook
