Hamas, Saudi Arabia, Australia reject Trump’s Gaza plan.
President Donald Trump suggested that the United States should take over the Gaza Strip and “own it.” His remarks sparked immediate global reactions, with many questioning the feasibility and implications of such a move. Hamas condemned the statement, calling it an imperialist fantasy, while Saudi Arabia and Australia also expressed concerns over the proposal. Critics argue that any U.S. intervention in Gaza would further destabilize the region and complicate ongoing conflicts. The White House has not provided further details on Trump’s comments or whether they reflect official policy.
Global Reactions Erupt Over Trump’s Suggestion of U.S. ‘Taking Over’ Gaza Strip
Washington, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about the United States taking over and “owning” the Gaza Strip have sparked swift and widespread reactions from global leaders, particularly from Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Hamas.
During a bilateral meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday, Trump suggested that Washington should assume control of the Gaza Strip, claiming that the U.S. would be responsible for dismantling unexploded bombs and securing the territory. His comments have since been met with strong opposition and concern, with many questioning the legal, political, and humanitarian implications of such a move.
Australia Stands by Two-State Solution
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed Trump’s remarks on Wednesday, reiterating that his government remains committed to a two-state solution in the Middle East.
The Australian government has consistently supported a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for both Israel and Palestine to exist as independent states with recognized borders. Albanese’s statement underscores Canberra’s commitment to diplomacy rather than unilateral interventions or occupations.
Hamas Strongly Condemns Trump’s Proposal
Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza, quickly condemned Trump’s remarks, calling them an “arrogant and colonialist fantasy.” A spokesperson for the group declared that Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people and will never be placed under American control.
The Palestinian people have fought for their land for decades and will resist any attempts by the U.S. or any foreign power to seize it,”** the statement read.
Hamas further accused Trump of trying to impose foreign dominance over Palestinian land, warning that any such move would lead to “unprecedented escalation and resistance.”
Saudi Arabia Cautions Against Unilateral Actions
Saudi Arabia, a key regional player and an advocate for Palestinian sovereignty, also responded to Trump’s comments with concern. A senior Saudi official stated that any decision regarding Gaza’s future must be made through diplomatic channels and in alignment with international law.
“The Kingdom firmly believes in a just resolution to the Palestinian issue and stands by efforts to achieve peace through negotiations, not through forced takeovers or unilateral decisions,” the official said.
Saudi Arabia has played a central role in Middle East peace discussions and has repeatedly emphasized the importance of Palestinian self-determination. Trump’s suggestion appears to contradict the efforts made in recent years to stabilize the region through diplomatic engagement rather than military or territorial expansion.
International Legal and Political Challenges
Trump’s idea of the U.S. “owning” Gaza raises significant legal and political concerns. International law does not permit one country to unilaterally take over another’s territory without due process. Experts argue that such a move would violate the United Nations Charter and could lead to severe diplomatic and legal repercussions.
“No modern precedent allows a foreign power to simply take control of a disputed region without broad international support and legal justification,” said Dr. Adam Reynolds, a political analyst specializing in Middle Eastern affairs. “If the U.S. were to attempt this, it would face not only resistance from Palestinians but also backlash from allies and international institutions.”
Possible U.S. Motives and Implications
Trump’s comments also raise questions about what the U.S. administration hopes to achieve with such a move. Some analysts speculate that the proposal is linked to efforts to reshape the Middle East in favor of U.S. and Israeli interests, particularly in securing Gaza’s strategic position.
Others believe the remarks were more rhetorical than a concrete policy proposal, aimed at appealing to certain voter bases ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Trump has consistently taken a strong pro-Israel stance and has positioned himself as a leader who prioritizes American control over global affairs.
“This could be another case of Trump making bold, attention-grabbing statements without clear policy direction,” said political commentator Laura Mitchell. “However, if he is serious, the global fallout would be immense.”
The Palestinian Perspective
Palestinian leaders and activists have expressed deep frustration over Trump’s statement, arguing that such rhetoric further marginalizes Palestinian aspirations for independence.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has yet to issue an official response, but sources within his administration indicated that the Palestinian leadership views Trump’s comments as “reckless and dangerous.”
Palestinian human rights groups have also warned that the idea of an American-controlled Gaza ignores the humanitarian crisis already plaguing the region. “What Gaza needs is aid, reconstruction, and political autonomy—not foreign military occupation,” said Amal Jibril, a Palestinian activist.