Donald Trump’s recent proposal for the United States to “take over” Gaza and resettle its Palestinian population has generated significant controversy, despite its highly improbable execution. The plan, which would require cooperation from Arab states like Jordan and Egypt, as well as financial support from Saudi Arabia, has already been rejected by these nations. Even the US’s Western allies are opposed to the idea.
The proposal not only stands little chance of becoming a reality, but its mere suggestion could also have far-reaching consequences for the Middle East. It risks inflaming tensions in Gaza and further eroding any hope for a two-state solution, which has long been central to US foreign policy. This would mark the end of any lingering possibility for a peaceful resolution between Israel and Palestine.
Moreover, Trump’s remarks seem to align with the interests of Israel’s far-right nationalist factions. Leaders such as Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have welcomed the proposal, expressing support for removing Palestinians from Gaza and replacing them with Jewish settlers. This rhetoric exacerbates the fears of Palestinians, who see the prospect of mass displacement as a continuation of the Nakba, the 1948 catastrophe that led to the forced expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.
While Trump’s plan remains highly unlikely to materialize, it could still serve as a destabilizing force. The announcement has already complicated the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and may embolden extremist groups on both sides. For Palestinians, the idea reinforces fears of further displacement and the destruction of their homes. Meanwhile, Israel’s ultranationalist factions are likely to push for more aggressive actions against Gaza, potentially reigniting the conflict.
In the long term, the consequences of Trump’s rhetoric could strengthen the narrative of the right-wing Israeli government and perpetuate instability in the region. As much as Trump’s plans for Gaza may be unfeasible, the political and diplomatic fallout is already creating a volatile atmosphere, adding uncertainty to an already turbulent Middle East.
