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The international community reacted with overwhelming disapproval on Wednesday following President Donald Trump’s unexpected declaration to transform the Gaza Strip into a so-called “Riviera of the Middle East.” His proposal includes the controversial idea of relocating millions of Palestinians currently residing in Gaza.
This startling announcement came during a press conference on Tuesday, where Trump, alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggested potential U.S. military involvement in the region. He indicated that the U.S. would take over Gaza, a statement that raised eyebrows and sparked immediate backlash.
Concerns from the White House
In an attempt to quell growing fears, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reassured the public on Wednesday. She stated that the president has not committed to military intervention or financing for the proposed reconstruction of Gaza. However, her comments did little to mitigate the widespread apprehension surrounding the plans.
International Backlash
Leaders from various regions—including the Middle East, Europe, Asia, South America, and Oceania—swiftly condemned Trump’s proposal. Notably, Saudi Arabia, which Trump has encouraged to normalize relations with Israel, publicly rejected the plan. The Saudi Foreign Ministry issued a statement emphasizing the necessity of a two-state solution for peace.
“Saudi Arabia firmly opposes any efforts to displace the Palestinians from their land,” the statement read, reiterating the kingdom’s unwavering stance. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has made the position clear, stating that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel without addressing Palestinian rights.
UAE’s Stance
The United Arab Emirates, despite previously signing the Abraham Accords during Trump’s first term, also distanced itself from his comments. The UAE’s Foreign Ministry responded with a categorical rejection of any actions that violate Palestinian rights and stressed the importance of ceasing settlement activities that threaten tranquility in the region.
Voices of Resistance
Hamas, through senior official Sami Abu Zuhri, responded defiantly, stating, “Our people in Gaza will not allow these plans to come to fruition. Ending Israeli occupation and aggression is paramount, not displacing our people from their homeland.” This sentiment echoed among numerous Palestinian leaders, including President Mahmoud Abbas, who marked the Gaza Strip as an inseparable part of Palestine.
Responses from Global Leaders
Trump’s proposal received further rebuke from U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He emphasized in the House of Commons that Palestinians deserve the right to return home and rebuild their lives, insisting on collaboration towards a peaceful two-state solution.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock took a forthright approach, declaring that any displacement of Palestinians from Gaza would violate international law and could incite further suffering and hostility in the region.
Global Perspectives on Displacement
Russia’s Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed the nation’s support for a two-state resolution, aligning with the consensus upheld by many nations involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Meanwhile, French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christophe Lemoine warned against forced displacements, asserting that this would have dire ramifications for regional stability.
China’s foreign ministry also weighed in, asserting that governance in Gaza should reflect Palestinian authority. The spokesperson emphasized that displacing the population would contradict post-conflict governance principles and impede the path to a peaceful resolution.
Continued Global Support for Two-State Solution
Turkish officials condemned Trump’s plans as unacceptable, while Australia reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution, a stance supported across its political spectrum. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized Trump’s remarks as bravado, highlighting the impracticality of forcing Palestinians into such a scenario.
To conclude, the overwhelming international dissent against Trump’s controversial proposal underscores the necessity for a dialogue centered on human rights, justice, and a realistic approach towards peace in the Middle East. The events unfolding in Gaza must inspire unity, rather than division, reflecting the wishes of its people and the principles of international law.
Reuters contributed to this report.
