The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

    After Greenland, now President Donald Trump wants Gaza. Here’s what he wants to do with it

    Synopsis

    President Donald Trump said the US should control Gaza and turn it into a “freedom zone.” He suggested his administration could oversee reconstruction efforts in the war-damaged area. His comments follow ongoing destruction after the October 2023 attack. Trump's ideas have received mixed responses from allies and local residents.

    Donald TrumpAP
    File photo: US President Donald Trump
    US President Donald Trump has proposed that the United States take control of the Gaza Strip and turn it into what he called a “freedom zone.” Trump said this effort would involve rebuilding the heavily damaged area, with full support and involvement from his administration.

    Trump’s Proposal

    Trump shared his proposal during a meeting in Doha, Qatar. He said Gaza should be managed by the United States and transformed into a peaceful zone. He did not provide detailed plans but stressed that his administration had clear concepts. Trump said he would be proud to lead the project.

    Also Read: Birthright Citizenship: Do countries around the world offer automatic citizenship to people born on their land? Here’s list of nations which do and the ones don’t


    Gaza’s Widespread Damage

    The region has suffered extreme destruction since the war began after the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack. Reports estimate that around 70% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. Trump referred to aerial images that show little standing infrastructure. He said people are now living under the rubble of collapsed buildings.

    Vision for a New Gaza

    Trump has previously promoted a plan to relocate Gaza's nearly 2 million residents. He proposed redeveloping the area into a resort-like region. In past posts, he even shared computer-generated videos of a future Gaza resort. Trump argued that the current conditions do not support safe living, suggesting a complete transformation was necessary.

    Also Read: Sweet Magnolias Season 5: When will filming begin? Here’s release window, production timeline and what to expect


    Mixed Reactions

    While Israeli leaders have expressed support for Trump’s plan, several countries in the Middle East have disagreed. They have refused to accept Palestinian refugees. Many Palestinians have rejected the idea of leaving their homeland. However, some are open to relocation due to the continued violence and destruction.

    Uncertain Future

    Cease-fire talks between Hamas and Israel have stalled. Though an Israeli-American hostage was freed recently, no major agreements have been reached. The political and humanitarian future of Gaza remains uncertain, with discussions continuing and no clear resolution in place.

    FAQs


    What is Trump's plan for Gaza?
    Trump wants the US to control Gaza and rebuild it as a “freedom zone,” possibly turning it into a peaceful development zone.

    How much of Gaza is damaged?
    An earlier analysis estimates about 70% of Gaza’s infrastructure is damaged or destroyed after the October 2023 conflict.


    (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)

    (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.)

    Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates.

    ...more

    (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)

    (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.)

    Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates.

    ...more
    The Economic Times

    Stories you might be interested in