According to the reports on Wednesday (5 February), US President Donald Trump proposed that the United States “take over” and “own” the Gaza Strip during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (4 February). He suggested that Gaza could be transformed into the “Riviera of the Middle East” and did not rule out sending US troops to secure the area. Trump also stated that the US would clear unexploded bombs, rebuild infrastructure, and create jobs while encouraging Palestinians to relocate to other Middle Eastern countries.
Netanyahu praised Trump, calling him “the greatest friend Israel has ever had” and expressed support for his proposal. He suggested that Trump’s plan could “change history” and was worth considering. Netanyahu highlighted Trump’s commitment to Israel and stated that the people of Israel have immense respect for him.
During the press conference, Trump reiterated that Gaza should not be rebuilt and occupied by the same people who have lived there in difficult conditions for years. He claimed that many people he had spoken to supported the idea of US ownership of Gaza. Trump positioned his proposal as a long-term plan aimed at reshaping the region, despite widespread rejection from Palestinians and neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan.
Netanyahu also stressed that Israel must “finish the job in Gaza” by eliminating Hamas, securing the release of hostages, and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. He asserted that Israel’s victory in the conflict would also be a victory for the United States. Netanyahu praised Trump’s willingness to challenge conventional thinking, stating that it could help achieve Israel’s goals in the region.
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