Trump's Plan for U.S. to 'Take Over' Gaza Raises Concern Amid Future State of Israel-Hamas Truce

What Happened?

President Donald Trump has raised many eyebrows after floating ideas that the U.S. would 'take over' Gaza and relocate Palestinians to neighboring countries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joined President Trump at the White House Tuesday during a press conference amid these remarks.

It marked the first foreign leader visit of President Trump's second term in office.

Trump proposed relocating nearly two million Palestinians and redeveloping the Gaza Strip under U.S. ownership to create the 'Riviera of the Middle East.'

'We'll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site,' Trump said.

U.S. foreign policy has long emphasized a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.

But Trump told reporters that 'Gaza is a guarantee that they’re going to end up dying.'

He envisions building quality housing in a beautiful town where the residents can live peacefully without the threat of continuous war.

'We should go to other countries of interest with humanitarian hearts,' Trump added. 'There are many of them that want to do this.'

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said, 'I think it's something that could change history. And I think it's worthwhile really pursuing.'

Trump provided no specifics on how the U.S. would execute this proposed idea.

Arab and Palestinian leaders have reportedly rejected the idea and have long hoped Gaza and the West Bank would form unity alongside Israel.

Palestinian militant group Hamas has also disagreed as they prepare this week for the next steps in the ceasefire agreement process.

Why it Matters

Israeli airstrikes have reportedly destroyed or damaged nearly 60% of buildings and around 92% of homes, according to data shared by the United Nations.

Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters Tuesday that a three to five-year timeline for the reconstruction of Gaza is not a viable post-war plan and called it 'preposterous.'

The temporary truce agreement aims to end the war on the 16th day of implementation.

Officials reportedly estimate upward of $300 million will be needed to sustain Gaza's most urgent needs in the next six months.

'As far as Gaza is concerned, we’ll do what is necessary,' Trump stated Tuesday and did not rule out sending U.S. troops.

Gaza City residents like Moeen Mohsen told CBS News, ‘Unfortunately, there came a decision to displace us. We reject it in its entirety. We are still holding on to our right to live.’

President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas did not take those claims of relocating Gaza residents too lightly as well.

'We will not allow prejudice to the rights of our people, which we have struggled for many decades and made great sacrifices to achieve,' Abbas told Palestinian news agency Wafa.

The Palestinian Authority reportedly has limited authority over larger Palestinian territories such as the West Bank.

Trump previously announced reversals in the West Bank, including U.S. sanctions removed against dozens of Israeli members accused of violence against Palestinians.

At least 12 people have been killed and at least 40 people injured as part of a major crackdown by Israel in the area of Jenin, according to reports.

How it Affects You

The truce does not cover the Israel-occupied West Bank territory.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has faced pressure from his allies after agreeing to the truce agreement with Hamas.

Trump recently ordered an end to U.S. engagement with the United Nations Human Rights Council.

He also reportedly continued to halt funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.

The critical months ago will be tested to see if the ceasefire agreement remains intact.