Written by Lisa Murimi
U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to resettle Gaza’s population drew widespread criticism on Wednesday, with international leaders and human rights groups denouncing the plan as impractical and a violation of international law.
Trump suggested that the U.S. could “take over” Gaza and temporarily relocate its residents while transforming the territory into “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the idea “worth paying attention to,” while Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz expressed support for Gazans having “freedom of exit and immigration.”
However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the resettlement plan would only be temporary to facilitate reconstruction efforts.
“This is a generous move showing U.S. responsibility for Gaza’s redevelopment,” he said during a trip to Guatemala.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt assured reporters that there were no plans for U.S. troops on the ground but did not rule out military involvement entirely.
Under international law, forced population transfers are prohibited, and Spain’s foreign minister has already rejected the idea of taking in Gazan refugees.
Palestinians have expressed shock and defiance, vowing not to leave their homeland. As global criticism mounts, Trump’s plan appears to be facing serious legal and diplomatic hurdles.
