Trump: "Israel will cede control of Gaza to the US after the war"

President Donald Trump has unveiled an ambitious proposal for Gaza's future, suggesting that Israel should transfer control of the territory to the United States once the current conflict ends and after the territory's current population has been relocated.

In a striking announcement posted on Truth Social that has caught international attention, Trump outlined his vision of transforming Gaza into what he described as "one of the largest and most spectacular developments in the world." He specified that "Palestinians will be resettled in much safer and more beautiful places in the region with modern homes," with the transformation to be carried out gradually and carefully by teams from around the world.

Despite proposing American control of the territory, Trump emphasized that his plan would not require US military presence in Gaza, explaining that this would be possible because the current population would be relocated first. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt has since clarified that Trump has not committed to sending US troops or using American taxpayer money for Gaza's reconstruction. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested Trump's statements were meant to encourage regional negotiations about Gaza's reconstruction.

The proposal entails transferring control from Israel to US administration after population relocation, implementing major development and construction initiatives with international teams, establishing civilian rather than military oversight, and completely transforming the region's infrastructure. This would require the relocation of approximately 2 million current residents to other areas.

In a related development, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has announced that he has instructed the IDF to prepare plans for "voluntary exit options for Gaza residents." These plans would include exit possibilities via land crossings and special arrangements for sea and air departures.

The White House has attempted to clarify and moderate Trump's statements since their initial announcement. Officials have emphasized that the proposal is open to alternative suggestions and intended to initiate discussions about regional reconstruction efforts.

The proposal marks a significant shift in Trump's previous positions, as he has historically opposed sending American troops abroad and criticized US administrations involved in nation-building efforts, characterizing such endeavors as wasteful. His recent statements appear to address criticism about the potential deployment of US troops and resource allocation to Gaza.

The implementation would require Israel to completely recapture Gaza and manage the relocation of its population, potentially extending the current conflict, which has already lasted 16 months, and resulting in additional casualties on both sides. The plan raises significant questions about feasibility, humanitarian implications, international law considerations, regional stability, and coordination with regional partners. As this complex situation develops, the practicality and implications of such a dramatic reorganization of Gaza's future continue to be debated by international observers and regional stakeholders.

Walla contributed to this article.