Trump’s 'Gaza Riviera' Takeover Plan Sparks Global Backlash

On February 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a controversial proposal for the United States to assume control over the Gaza Strip. During a joint press conference at the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump outlined a plan to "take over" and "own" Gaza, aiming to redevelop the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East." This initiative involves relocating approximately 2 million Palestinian residents to neighboring countries such as Egypt and Jordan.

The proposal has been met with widespread international condemnation. Critics argue that forcibly displacing the Palestinian population constitutes ethnic cleansing and violates international law. Egypt and Jordan have firmly rejected the plan, emphasizing concerns over regional stability and the forced relocation of Palestinians.

In response to the backlash, Trump suggested that the relocation would provide Palestinians with "much better housing" in new, permanent communities outside Gaza. However, this assurance has done little to alleviate concerns, as many view the plan as undermining Palestinian rights and sovereignty.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed support for the proposal, describing it as a "revolutionary, creative" solution that could enhance Israel's security. Despite this endorsement, the plan has faced criticism from various quarters, including human rights organizations and international legal experts, who question its feasibility and legality.

The announcement has also raised concerns about its impact on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Observers warn that implementing such a plan could reignite hostilities and further destabilize the region. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging adherence to international law and the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Image: The White House/Flickr

Public domain.

Note: image is from 2020 meeting between Trump and Netenyahu