Trump's Gaza plan will be viewed as a direct challenge to international law

Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff

D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source : REUTERS/Tom Brenner

Trump's Radical Gaza Plan Faces Global Backlash

Trump’s Controversial Remarks on Gaza

Ten days ago, U.S. President Donald Trump referred to Gaza as a “demolition site,” calling to “clean out that whole thing.” Initially, it was unclear if these were just off the cuff remarks, but his repeated statements in the lead up to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit confirm his serious intent.

A Major Shift in U.S. Policy

Trump’s proposals mark the most extreme shift in the U.S. position on Israel and Palestine in recent history. His plan directly contradicts international law and challenges long standing diplomatic norms.

Potential Impact on Ceasefire and Hostage Negotiations

Beyond its legal and political ramifications, Trump’s announcement could disrupt the ongoing phased ceasefire and hostage release negotiations, occurring at a crucial moment in the conflict.

Forcible Transfer of Palestinians

Trump and his officials are framing their call to permanently “resettle” all Palestinians outside Gaza as a humanitarian move, arguing that Gaza is uninhabitable. However, under international law, forced population transfers are strictly prohibited. Arab nations and Palestinian leaders view this as an expulsion plan, amounting to ethnic cleansing.

Strong Arab Rejection

Arab leaders have categorically rejected Trump’s suggestions, including proposals for Egypt and Jordan to “take” Palestinians. In a joint statement, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the Palestinian Authority, and the Arab League warned that such actions could destabilize the region, escalate conflict, and undermine peace efforts.

Support from Israel’s Far Right

Ultra nationalist factions in Israel, including some in Netanyahu’s coalition, have long advocated for the expulsion of Palestinians and the expansion of Jewish settlements. Since the October 7, 2023 attacks, these groups have opposed ceasefire efforts and pushed for a continued military offensive in Gaza. Trump’s statements align with their long held goals.

U.S. Plans for Gaza’s Future

In his White House press conference with Netanyahu, Trump suggested that the U.S. could take over Gaza and rebuild it. He described his vision of turning it into an “international, unbelievable place,” even calling it the “Riviera of the Middle East.” When asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return, he vaguely mentioned that “the world’s people” would live there, adding, “also Palestinians.”

Abolishing the Two State Solution

Trump’s proposal would forcibly remove over two million Palestinians from Gaza, eliminating the possibility of a two state solution. Palestinians and Arab nations will undoubtedly reject this as a mass expulsion plan.

Palestinian Perspective: Collective Punishment

For ordinary Palestinians, Trump’s proposals would constitute a large scale act of collective punishment. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s political base and Israeli ultra nationalist settlers are likely to champion his statements as a means to permanently remove the perceived threat from Gaza.

A Turning Point in the Conflict

Trump’s drastic departure from past U.S. policy on Israel and Palestine signals a significant shift with global implications. If enacted, his plan would redefine the region’s future, triggering strong resistance from Palestinians and the international community.