The US president envisions a “long-term ownership” of the enclave, resettling the Palestinians in other states
US President Donald Trump’s proposal for a US takeover of Gaza is worth considering and will be explored, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said, praising Israel’s “best friend” for thinking “outside the box.”
Speaking at a joint press conference with Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday, Trump announced plans for the US to assume control of the enclave, clear the remains of damaged buildings, and rebuild it. He also reiterated his position that Palestinians should be permanently resettled outside of Gaza.
Netanyahu responded positively to Trump’s proposal, describing it as a potentially historic move.
One of the Jewish state’s key goals in the 15-month conflict was “to make sure Gaza never poses a threat to Israel again,” he said.
Netanyahu on Trump’s plan for US to take Gaza: He has a different idea, and I think it’s worth paying attention to this. We’re talking about it. He’s exploring it with his people, with his staff. I think it’s something that could change history and it’s worthwhile really pursuing… pic.twitter.com/TVsFqS2VyU
“President Trump is taking it to a much higher level. He sees a different future for that piece of land,” Netanyahu said. “He has a different idea, and I think it’s worth paying attention to.”
“I think it’s something that could change history,” Netanyahu added, noting that both sides are discussing the possibilities. “Your willingness to puncture conventional thinking – thinking that has failed time and time again – your willingness to think outside the box with fresh ideas will help us achieve all these goals.”
The Israeli leader also stressed that Trump was the “greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.” He highlighted several pro-Israel policies from Trump’s first term, including recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, moving the US embassy there, formally endorsing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and withdrawing from the “disastrous Iran nuclear deal.”
According to Trump’s plan, the US would take control of Gaza and redevelop it into the “Riviera of the Middle East,” while roughly 2 million Palestinian residents would be resettled elsewhere. When asked whether the plan included deploying US soldiers to Gaza, Trump said he would send troops if “necessary.”
