Washington: United States President Donald Trump has proposed that the U.S. take 'ownership' of the Gaza Strip and turn it into a hub of tourism, in a move that would potentially displace the Palestinian inhabitants of the territory permanently. Speaking at a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump suggested that the U.S. would redevelop Gaza after Palestinians are resettled elsewhere, transforming the area into an international destination.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Trump's proposal involves the U.S. taking over the Gaza Strip and rebuilding it into 'the Riviera of the Middle East.' The president asserted that Palestinians have 'no alternative' but to leave Gaza, describing the region as a 'demolition site' unsuitable for habitation. He mentioned the possibility of deploying U.S. soldiers to the area if deemed necessary.

The announcement has sparked significant backlash. Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the White House, chanting 'Gaza is not for sale.' Additionally, the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas condemned Trump's comments, calling the plan a 'recipe for creating chaos and tension in the region' and emphasizing their opposition to displacement.

The proposal has also drawn caution from U.S. allies in the region. Egypt and Jordan, among others, have warned against the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza, with both Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi and Jordanian King Abdullah II rejecting Trump's calls for resettlement.