The recent announcement by Donald Trump has generated significant international attention, particularly in the Middle East. The president’s plan involves the expulsion and reallocation of Palestinians to other countries. This proposal was announced during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, following a meeting between the two leaders. When asked about the proposal, Netanyahu stated that it is worth considering, and he also praised Trump, calling him “the best friend that Israel has had in the White House.”
The reaction to the Republican plans for Gaza has been mixed within the party. While some legislators have chosen to be cautious and wait for further developments, others have expressed their reservations publicly. Some detractors, including Republican Senator Rand Paul from Kentucky, have referenced Trump’s “America First” motto, stating that the United States “does not have to” occupy Gaza. Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina described the proposal as “problematic” and described the potential consequences of sending Americans to take control of Gaza.
The Middle East has strongly rejected the proposal, with the Islamist group Hamas describing the US position as “racist” and warning that the Palestinian people will continue to resist and will not accept the plan, regardless of the cost. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has called for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip without forcing Palestinians to leave their homes, advocating for a two-state solution. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has also stated that Trump’s proposal is “unacceptable” and predicts that leaving the Palestinian people out of the equation regarding the future of their territories could lead to more conflicts.