Donald Trump doubles down: Committed to "buying and owning" Gaza

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday reaffirmed his commitment to "buying and owning Gaza," while suggesting that portions of the land could be allocated to other Middle Eastern states to assist in reconstruction efforts.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to the Super Bowl in New Orleans, Trump outlined his vision for Gaza’s future.

"We're committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn't move back—there's nothing to move back into," he stated.

He also stated that the territory is currently a "demolition site" but has potential for redevelopment.

"We will make Gaza into a good site for future development. We will take care of the Palestinians and make sure they are not murdered," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One while en route to the Super Bowl in New Orleans.

He added that he believes Middle Eastern nations may be open to accepting Palestinian refugees following diplomatic discussions. However, Trump also noted that he would personally review individual cases of Palestinian refugees seeking entry into the United States.

Following Trump's remarks, Ezzat El Rashq, a senior member of Hamas' political bureau, issued a statement condemning the comments. Rashq declared that Palestinians would resist any displacement efforts and vowed to oppose such plans.