Trump Confirms Plan to Block Palestinian Return to Gaza

US President Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of international condemnation after confirming his proposal for Gaza entails permanent displacement of Palestinians, Al Jazeera reports.

In a recent interview with Fox News, Trump said, “No, they wouldn’t,” when asked if Palestinians would be allowed back into Gaza under his plan, further reiterating his desire to “own” the territory.

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt last week referred to a “temporary relocation,” and Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke of Palestinians being able to “move back in” after reconstruction efforts.

Trump suggested leveraging US aid to Jordan and Egypt, countries he believes should host the displaced Palestinians:

“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 further envisioned Palestinians living in “beautiful communities” outside of Gaza, describing the situation as a “real estate development for the future” for the US.

The proposal for the US to “own” Gaza has been met with widespread skepticism and concern.

Across the Middle East, Trump’s plan has been forcefully rejected, particularly by Egypt and Jordan, key countries Trump hopes will accommodate displaced Gazans.

The situation in Gaza remains dire. According to the Health Ministry in Gaza, the ongoing Israeli offensive, backed by the US, has resulted in the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians. The Gaza Government Media Office puts the death toll even higher, at over 61,700, including thousands missing and presumed dead.

The offensive has left much of Gaza in ruins, prompting local authorities to plead for tents and mobile homes to shelter displaced residents. They accuse Israel of hindering aid efforts, violating the ceasefire agreement.