Trump Committed to Buying Gaza, No Right of Return

President Donald Trump has announced a proposal for the United States to assume control over the Gaza Strip, with plans to redevelop the war-torn area. Speaking aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans for the Super Bowl, Trump stated, “I’m committed to buying and owning Gaza.” He suggested that while the U.S. would take ownership, reconstruction efforts could involve collaboration with Middle Eastern nations.

“As far as us rebuilding it, we may give it to other states in the Middle East to build sections of it, other people may do it, through our auspices. But we’re committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn’t move back,” he added.

The president emphasized the current uninhabitable state of Gaza, describing it as a “demolition site.” He proposed that the U.S. would ensure Hamas does not return to the area and mentioned the possibility of allowing some Palestinian refugees into the United States on a case-by-case basis. This proposal follows earlier statements where Trump outlined a vision to “take over the Gaza Strip,” level it, and rebuild the area to foster economic development and stability.

The plan has elicited mixed reactions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s leadership and expressed support for the initiative. Conversely, Hamas criticized the proposal, labeling it a “recipe for creating chaos and tension in the region.”

Additionally, some American political figures have expressed concerns. Senator Rand Paul questioned the alignment of the plan with the “America First” policy, stating, “We have no business contemplating yet another occupation to doom our treasure and spill our soldiers’ blood.”

Saudi Arabia has reiterated its stance, asserting that it will not establish ties with Israel without the creation of a Palestinian state.

As discussions continue, the proposal’s feasibility and potential consequences remain subjects of intense debate among global leaders and policymakers.