Former US President Donald Trump declared Tuesday that the United States “will take over” the Gaza Strip, suggesting a long-term American role in its redevelopment and security.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump stated:
“The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it too. We’ll own it, be responsible for dismantling unexploded bombs, leveling the site, and rebuilding.”
When asked about deploying US troops to fill a security vacuum, Trump did not rule it out:
“As far as Gaza is concerned, we’ll do what is necessary. If it’s necessary, we’ll do that.”
Trump’s comments mark a stunning shift in US foreign policy, as he previously criticized US military interventions in the Middle East. He claimed long-term US control could bring “great stability” to the region and hinted at economic development projects.
But Trump did not directly respond to a question of how and under what authority the U.S. can take over the land of Gaza and occupy it in the long term.
“I do see a long-term ownership position and I see it bringing great stability to that part of the Middle East,” he said, adding that he had spoken to regional leaders and they supported the idea.
“I’ve studied this very closely over a lot of months,” Trump added, saying he would visit Gaza but without saying when.
Earlier Tuesday, Trump suggested relocating Gaza’s population, saying:
“What do they have? It’s a big pile of rubble right now.”
His remarks align with Israel’s conservative factions but face strong opposition from Arab nations unwilling to accept Palestinian refugees.