Gaza, January 26, 2025: US President Donald Trump has proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, describing the war-torn territory as a “demolition site.”
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump revealed he had discussed the idea with Jordan’s King Abdullah and intended to raise it with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. He suggested the relocation could be temporary or permanent.
Hamas strongly rejected the proposal, with senior official Bassem Naim stating, “Our people will not accept displacement under any guise. Gaza is our ancestral home.” Displaced residents in Gaza, like Abu Yahya Rashid, voiced similar sentiments, insisting, “We will not leave except as corpses.”
The United Nations estimates that over 60% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been destroyed during the 15-month conflict with Israel, leaving most of the territory’s two million residents displaced. Egypt and Jordan have previously opposed forced displacement, with President Sisi affirming that the solution lies in establishing an independent Palestinian state.
Trump hinted at collaborating with Arab nations to build housing outside Gaza, claiming it could offer Palestinians “a chance to live in peace.” However, his comments mark a significant departure from traditional US policy, which has supported the creation of a Palestinian state with Gaza as a key component.
Israel’s far-right figures welcomed the idea, viewing it as a step toward voluntary emigration. Meanwhile, displaced residents in Gaza expressed frustration as delays in returning to their devastated homes persisted amidst ongoing tensions.
Trump also confirmed resuming the supply of advanced bombs to Israel, underscoring continued US military support despite calls for restrictions due to Gaza’s destruction.
