Trump declares ‘commitment to buying and owning Gaza,’ sparking backlash
President Trump speaks to journalists aboard Air Force One as it flies over the Gulf en route to New Orleans, Louisianam on Sunday. Photo: Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images
US President Donald Trump reaffirmed his intent to take control of Gaza on Sunday, stating that while he remains “committed to buying and owning” the territory, parts of it could be rebuilt by Middle Eastern states under US oversight.
Speaking aboard Air Force One en route to the Super Bowl, Trump declared his goal of preventing Hamas from returning.
“There’s nothing to move back into. The place is a demolition site. The remainder will be demolished. Everything’s demolished,” he asserted, dismissing concerns about the displacement of Palestinians.
Trump also suggested he might allow some Palestinian refugees into the United States but would consider such cases individually.
His remarks provoked swift condemnation. Hamas official Ezzat El Rashq denounced the idea, stating, “Gaza is not a property to be sold and bought. It is an integral part of our occupied Palestinian land.”
Trump’s vision for Gaza, which he previously described as a future “Riviera of the Middle East,” has drawn international criticism.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog confirmed Trump will meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Jordan’s King Abdullah.
Jordan, which has strongly opposed the plan, is expected to warn that it would fuel “radicalism” across the Middle East, according to reports.
