Donald Trump appears unfazed by the widespread backlash to his proposal for the U.S. to take control of the Gaza Strip and relocate its Palestinian population elsewhere. When asked about the strong international condemnation, the U.S. president dismissed concerns, suggesting he saw things differently.
“Everybody loves it,” Trump told reporters during the swearing-in of new Attorney General Pam Bodie. However, he quickly shut down further questions, adding, “This is not the time.”
Meanwhile, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson threw his support behind Trump’s plan, saying House Republicans would stand by the initiative.
“The initial announcement yesterday may have surprised many, but it was welcomed by people around the world,” Johnson claimed at a press conference. “Why? Because that region is incredibly dangerous, and the president is taking bold, decisive action to secure peace,” he added.
Berlin: ‘The Gaza Strip Belongs to the Palestinians’
Germany joined the growing list of governments rejecting Trump’s plan, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock making it clear that Gaza “belongs to the Palestinians.”
“The civilian population of Gaza should not be expelled, nor should Gaza be occupied or permanently resettled,” Baerbock stated.
She further condemned the forced displacement of Palestinians, calling it “unacceptable and a violation of international law.”
“It would only bring more suffering and fuel further hatred,” she warned. “Gaza—like the West Bank and East Jerusalem—belongs to the Palestinians. These territories form the foundation of a future Palestinian state, and a two-state solution remains the only viable path to peace.”
Ask me anything
Explore related questions