Trump wants to "take over" Gaza: Many countries oppose it, saying it is unacceptable

On February 4, 2025, following discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, US President Trump unveiled a controversial proposal that drew significant international attention and criticism. According to the plan, the United States would assume control of the Gaza Strip, relocating Palestinian residents to other countries before undertaking redevelopment efforts in the region. This announcement not only garnered widespread concern and opposition from the global community but also escalated tensions in the Middle East.

During a press briefing, Trump outlined that the US intended to "assume jurisdiction" over Gaza, clearing the area of explosives and weapons while demolishing damaged structures. His vision involved transforming Gaza into a tourist hub, generating thousands of jobs and establishing it as "a premier beach destination in the Middle East." For the over two million Palestinians residing in Gaza, Trump proposed their relocation to neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan, arguing that they should not return to the war-torn region. However, this plan contradicts the longstanding US diplomatic stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and breaches international law prohibiting forced population transfers.

Trump's statement was swiftly condemned by the international community. Numerous governments and international organizations deemed the plan unacceptable, stressing the importance of respecting the rights and interests of the Palestinian people.

Turkish Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu firmly rejected Trump's proposal to "take over Gaza," deeming it both unacceptable and non-negotiable. He highlighted that the Palestinian issue stemmed from similar actions and emphasized the unimaginable nature of expelling Palestinians from Gaza. Çavuşoğlu further stated that Turkey staunchly opposed any attempts to marginalize Gaza's inhabitants and believed that even discussing such a proposal was a mistake.

Egypt and Jordan also issued statements successively, firmly opposing the transfer of Palestinians from their land and urging the international community to implement the "two-state solution", that is, a peaceful coexistence plan of two states including the State of Palestine and Israel. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry stated that any attempt to change the status quo in the Gaza Strip would pose a threat to stability in the Middle East and could lead to further escalation of the conflict.

Palestinian President Abbas also issued a statement saying that Trump's remarks seriously violated international law and the Palestinian people would not give up their rights and land. He emphasized that the Gaza Strip, as well as the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, are all inseparable parts of the Palestinian territory and the legitimate rights of the Palestinians are not negotiable.

In addition to the strong opposition from Arab countries, Western countries also expressed dissatisfaction with Trump's plan. Western countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany have all reaffirmed their support for the "two-state solution" and opposed the US taking over the Gaza Strip and expelling its residents. A spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry said that France opposes any forced displacement of Palestinians, which would seriously violate international law and undermine the legitimate demands of the Palestinians.

In addition, there has been fierce criticism of Trump's plan in the United States. The executive director of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said Trump's comments were "frightening" and would violate all regulations and international law. The president of the Center for International Policy, a U.S. think tank, pointed out that Trump's claim to "take over Gaza" and "permanently resettle Gaza residents" is tantamount to an open call to commit crimes against humanity.

Trump's "takeover of Gaza" plan not only triggered widespread opposition in the international community, but also triggered strong criticism in the United States. This plan not only violates international law, but also runs counter to longstanding U.S. foreign policy on the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Trump's remarks are undoubtedly a serious provocation to international law and basic norms governing international relations, and the motivation and potential consequences behind them deserve high vigilance and reflection by the international community.

To achieve peace in the Middle East, all parties need to work together to find a solution through dialogue and cooperation, rather than relying on power and interference. Trump's remarks are undoubtedly a serious breach of this principle and further aggravate tensions in the Middle East. The international community should make joint efforts to promote the settlement of disputes between Palestine and Israel through peaceful negotiations and achieve peace and stability in the Middle East.