Donald Trump has proposed that the United States seize control of the Gaza Strip to transform it into a world-class tourist destination. However, this proposal has been met with b opposition from America's European and Arab allies. Israel, on the other hand, bly supports Trump's plan, viewing it as an opportunity.
During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Trump outlined his proposal to evacuate and rebuild the Gaza Strip, aiming to make it a premier tourist destination in the Middle East – a "Riviera" of sorts. He stated that the plan would require significant funding and necessitate the relocation of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. His objective is to transform Gaza into a massive resort, a vision that has been rejected by Arab nations.
Let's explore Trump's Gaza resort plan, its controversies, Israel's support, and the potential future for Palestinians if they are relocated.
What is the Gaza Resort Plan?
Donald Trump seeks to drastically alter the long-standing US policy on the Gaza Strip. His proposal involves removing Gaza's population from their homes and subsequently demolishing existing structures in the area.
Following US acquisition, the plan is to redevelop the Gaza Strip into a world-class tourist destination. This would involve constructing railways, roads, and ports; Trump believes this modernized city would attract people globally. However, Trump hasn't clarified how the US would seize control of Gaza, stating only that Israel would cede control to the US after the conclusion of hostilities. It is noteworthy that the US has no legal claim to Gaza.
Trump's plan calls for the resettlement of approximately 2.2 million Palestinian citizens in Egypt and Jordan. He proposes the creation of six secure communities in these countries to accommodate the displaced Palestinians. Trump believes the development of Gaza would create thousands of jobs and attract people worldwide, but Palestinian citizens would not have the right to return to Gaza.
Egypt and Jordan are heavily reliant on US aid, and Trump has threatened to cut off this aid if they fail to cooperate with the resettlement plan.
Where Will Palestinian Citizens Go?
According to Donald Trump's press secretary, Caroline Levit, the US will not deploy its military in Gaza. Palestinian citizens would be temporarily instructed to leave their homes to facilitate the area's development. While Trump plans to relocate Palestinians to Jordan and Egypt, Israel believes Saudi Arabia should bear the responsibility for resettling Gaza's population.
What Would the US Need to Do in Gaza?
Rebuilding Gaza would be a massive undertaking. This would include constructing roads, restoring water and power lines, rebuilding schools, hospitals, and shops, and clearing hazardous bombs and explosives. Furthermore, extensive debris removal would be necessary. Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, suggests that the development of Gaza could take several years.
Arab World Opposition
Trump's plan has drawn widespread international condemnation. Germany, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt have swiftly rejected the proposal. The people of Gaza are also unwilling to abandon their homes, which are now largely in ruins. Saudi Arabia has stated it will not accept any plan that renders Palestinians homeless.
Arab nations believe Trump's proposal could exacerbate the Arab-Israeli conflict and jeopardize the possibility of a two-state solution. Furthermore, Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia fear that an influx of Palestinian refugees could destabilize their countries.
Arab Nations' Preparations
A major Arab League meeting is scheduled for February 27th in Cairo, Egypt, to demonstrate support for Palestinians. The meeting will address Gaza's reconstruction and the creation of employment opportunities. A few days earlier, on February 20th, Saudi Arabia will host leaders from four Arab nations to discuss the US plan to seize control of Gaza.
What is the Gaza Strip?
The Gaza Strip is a small territory located on the western coast of Israel. It is 45 kilometers long and a maximum of 10 kilometers wide. It is bordered by Egypt's Sinai Peninsula to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, and Israel to the north and east. Gaza's total area is 360 square kilometers, roughly twice the size of Washington D.C. The Gaza Strip is a part of Palestine.
