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Global Leaders Respond with Outrage to Trump’s Controversial Gaza Proposal
On Wednesday, the international community reacted with shock and condemnation after President Donald Trump revealed plans for transforming the Gaza Strip into a ‘Riviera of the Middle East.’ During a press conference on Tuesday, while standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump mentioned the potential relocation of millions of Palestinians living in the region.
Understanding the Proposal
This proposal, described by many as a bombshell, suggested that the United States might take direct control of Gaza, raising alarms regarding possible military involvement. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt aimed to quell fears by clarifying that Trump had not committed to deploying military forces or funding reconstruction efforts.
Reactions from the Middle East
However, the backlash came swiftly from global leaders. Saudi Arabia, which Trump has encouraged to normalize relations with Israel, issued a firm denial of the proposal. The Saudi Foreign Ministry emphasized that diplomatic ties with Israel cannot be established without a two-state solution for Palestinians.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated that the kingdom categorically rejects any attempts to displace Palestinians. He reaffirmed that any position taken by the kingdom is explicit and leaves no room for ambiguity.
The UAE’s Stance
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a nation that previously engaged with Israel through the Abraham Accords, also distanced itself from Trump’s remarks. The UAE’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its firm rejection of actions that violate the inalienable rights of Palestinians, calling for a cessation of settlement activities which threaten both stability and prospects for peace.
Voices from Hamas and Palestinian Leadership
A senior Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri, expressed strong opposition to Trump’s plans, asserting that the people of Gaza will not permit such changes to unfold. He emphasized that the path forward should focus on ending Israeli occupation rather than displacing Palestinians.
Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas echoed similar sentiments, asserting that Palestinians are steadfast in retaining their land, rights, and sacred sites, viewing Gaza as an inseparable part of Palestine.
International Condemnation
Global reaction did not cease at the borders of the Middle East. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer broke ranks with Trump, advocating for the right of Palestinians to return to their homeland and participate in the rebuilding process. He called this a critical step toward achieving a viable two-state solution.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock approached the issue by underscoring the legal framework governing the conflict. She warned that displacing the Palestinian population would not only violate international law but also lead to further suffering and resentment.
Statements from Russia and France
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia’s commitment to a two-state solution, highlighting the broad consensus amongst nations that uphold this position. French foreign ministry spokesperson Christophe Lemoine cautioned against any actions that might force the displacement of Palestinians, stressing that Gaza’s future lies within the framework of an independent Palestinian state.
The Global Perspective
Chinese officials conveyed their long-standing principle that Palestinians should govern their territory. The Chinese Foreign Ministry explicitly stated its opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians and called for a peaceful political resolution based on mutual acceptance.
Turkey’s position, articulated by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, labeled Trump’s proposal as unacceptable and warned that excluding Palestinians from the discussion would fuel further conflict.
Calls for Unity and Sovereignty
Leaders from Australia and Brazil also voiced their support for a two-state solution. Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed their longstanding bipartisan approach to this issue, while Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva characterized Trump’s rhetoric as misguided and overflowing with bravado.
In summation, Trump’s proposal to reimagine Gaza as a resort destination has ignited widespread disapproval and anxiety among global leaders, reinforcing the call for a peaceful two-state solution.
Reuters contributed to this report.
