Strong Reactions Following Donald Trump’s Statements on Gaza

The remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a possible U.S. takeover of the Gaza Strip and the displacement of its population continue to spark a wave of international outrage.

A Controversial Plan

During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump stated his intention to “take control” of Gaza and turn it into the “French Riviera of the Middle East.” He spoke of a “long-term” project aimed at “flattening the area,” “removing destroyed buildings,” and relocating the population to other countries. In late January, he had already caused controversy by suggesting the “evacuation” of Gazans to Jordan and Egypt, a proposal firmly rejected by both nations.

International Outrage

Many voices have condemned these statements, warning of the dangers they pose to regional stability.

• France strongly reacted, calling Trump’s remarks “dangerous for stability and the peace process.” The French Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution and opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians, which it described as “a serious violation of international law.”
• Germany emphasized that “Gaza belongs to the Palestinians” and should be part of a future Palestinian state alongside the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
• The United Kingdom insisted on the Palestinians’ right to “live and prosper” in their territories.
• The United Nations described Trump’s statements as “very surprising,” while Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called the proposal “incomprehensible.”
• Saudi Arabia and Turkey also rejected Trump’s remarks, reaffirming their support for an independent Palestinian state.

Israeli Support and Hamas Condemnation

While Hamas condemned the plan as “racist” and aligned with the Israeli far right, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed it as an idea that “could change history.” He also called Donald Trump “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.”

Amid this controversy, the status of Gaza remains a central issue in international tensions, leaving the future of the territory highly uncertain.