US President Donald Trump has unveiled a controversial plan to “take over” the Gaza Strip, offering what he calls a bold new future for the war-torn enclave. But his proposal—to relocate Palestinians elsewhere in the Middle East and redevelop Gaza into the “Riviera of the region”—has been met with global backlash, raising serious questions about feasibility, legality, and intent.
During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump claimed the US would “own” Gaza, clear the devastation, and transform the territory into a prosperous hub. “We’ll take over, we’ll do a job with it, and we’ll make it the most beautiful place,” he said, suggesting US troops could be deployed “if necessary” to enforce stability.
The new plan signals a radical departure from decades of US foreign policy, which has traditionally supported a two-state solution.
The announcement has put key US allies, including Australia, Canada, and the UK, in a difficult diplomatic position, as they continue to back Palestinian self-determination while maintaining strategic relations with Israel.
World leaders, Palestinian officials, and Middle East analysts have widely condemned Trump’s proposal, describing it as unrealistic and a violation of international law.
Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza, issued a strong rebuke, calling the plan a “recipe for chaos and tension in the region.” The Palestinian Authority also rejected the proposal, warning it could escalate violence rather than bring peace.
Closer to home, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese refused to comment directly on Trump’s remarks but reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to a two-state solution.
“Our position has remained the same across governments: a just and lasting peace must come through negotiation, not forced displacement.”
Trump’s rhetoric has drawn comparisons to his real estate background, with critics arguing he sees Gaza as an investment opportunity rather than a geopolitical crisis. He has repeatedly described the coastal strip’s “phenomenal location” and “incredible potential,” echoing comments made by his son-in-law and former adviser Jared Kushner, who once referred to Gaza’s waterfront property as “very valuable.”
Israel’s far-right politicians have welcomed Trump’s approach. Jewish Power party leader Itamar Ben Gvir described it as “the only real solution” to Gaza’s future, while Netanyahu cautiously praised Trump’s vision as “worth pursuing.”
With two million Palestinians living in Gaza, Trump’s proposal faces immense practical and ethical challenges. Any attempt to forcibly remove civilians would violate international law, and neighbouring Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, have already dismissed any possibility of accepting Gazans.
Trump’s proposal has sparked global controversy and deepening divisions over Gaza’s future. Whether it gains traction or remains political theatre is uncertain.
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