Trump Softens Stance on Gaza Control and Palestinian Relocation Plan

U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to soften his controversial plan to take control of war-ravaged Gaza and relocate its more than two million residents to neighboring countries, clarifying that he was merely recommending the idea rather than enforcing it. 

Trump’s initial proposal, unveiled earlier this month, sparked international concern. The plan outlined a scenario where Washington would oversee the reconstruction of Gaza while pressuring Egypt and Jordan to accept displaced Palestinians. However, in a recent interview, the Republican leader acknowledged resistance from key regional players.

Speaking on Fox News Radio’s The Brian Kilmeade Show on Friday, Trump admitted that both Jordan and Egypt had outright rejected the proposal, describing the forced displacement of Palestinians as unjust.

“I was a little surprised they’d say that, but they did,” Trump said, adding that the United States provides “billions of dollars a year” in aid to these nations. Despite their opposition, he stood by his plan, insisting that it was a viable solution. “The way to do it is my plan. I think that’s a plan that really works, but I’m not forcing it. I’m just gonna sit back and recommend it,” he stated.

Trump’s remarks came as Arab leaders convened in Riyadh on Friday to formulate a counterproposal for Gaza’s post-war reconstruction. The meeting aimed to present an alternative vision to Trump’s approach, focusing on regional cooperation and Palestinian self-determination.