Washington DC:
During a meeting with Jordan King Abdullah II, US President Donald Trump reiterated his controversial plan for the United States to “own” Gaza by relocating the 2.2 million Palestinians living there to neighboring countries. Trump expressed his determination by stating, “We’re going to have Gaza. We don’t have to buy. There’s nothing to buy. We will have Gaza…We’re going to take it, we’re going to hold it, we’re going to cherish it.” However, he clarified that he had no intention of personally developing properties in Gaza, despite his background in real estate.
Trump emphasized that his plan did not include a right of return for displaced Palestinians and envisioned the redeveloped land benefiting people in the Middle East. He highlighted the dire living conditions in Gaza, stating that the region was in need of significant improvement.
King Abdullah II pushed back against Trump’s proposal, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding Gaza without displacing its residents. He suggested that neighboring countries, such as Jordan and Egypt, could collaborate with the United States on a comprehensive plan for the region’s development.
Amidst escalating tensions in Gaza, Israel threatened to resume intense fighting if hostages were not released by Hamas. The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas faced challenges, with both parties accusing each other of violations.
