TRUMP'S GAZA STRIP PLAN: MILITARY IMPLICATIONS EXPLORED
President Donald Trump's recent proposal to assume control over the Gaza Strip and transform it into the "Riviera of the Middle East" has ignited extensive debate, particularly concerning its military implications. The plan entails the relocation of approximately 2 million Palestinian residents to neighboring countries, with the U.S. potentially deploying military forces to facilitate the takeover and subsequent redevelopment of the territory.
Donald Trump on Tuesday urged Jordan's King Abdullah to accept Palestinians who would be permanently displaced under Trump’s plan for the U.S. to take control of the Gaza Strip. However, the king firmly opposed the idea.
U.S. Military Strategy: Trump's Gaza Strip Plan Challenges
Experts have warned that the execution of Trump's plan would necessitate a substantial U.S. military presence to establish and maintain control over Gaza. This would involve deploying ground troops, securing borders, and ensuring internal stability during the transition period.
Given Gaza's dense urban environment and history of conflict, U.S. forces could face significant challenges, including potential resistance from local factions and the complexities inherent in urban warfare.
The logistics of relocating millions of residents present another formidable challenge. Such an operation would require extensive coordination with neighboring countries, substantial resources, and meticulous planning to address humanitarian concerns.
King Abdullah II of Jordan: Opposition to Gaza Strip Relocation
Trump has angered the Arab world by saying that Palestinians would not be allowed to return to their homes under his plan to redevelop the Gaza Strip, which has been heavily damaged by an Israeli attack.
"We're going to take it. We're going to hold it. We're going to cherish it. We're going to get it going eventually, where a lot of jobs are going to be created for the people in the Middle East," Trump said in the Oval Office.
King Abdullah later stated that he reminded Trump of Jordan’s strong stance against displacing Palestinians from Gaza or the occupied West Bank, which borders Jordan.
“I stressed that my foremost commitment is to Jordan, to its stability and to the well-being of Jordanians,” Abdullah posted on the social platform X after departing the White House.
“I reiterated Jordan’s steadfast position against the displacement of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. This is the unified Arab position,” he continued. “Rebuilding Gaza without displacing the Palestinians and addressing the dire humanitarian situation should be the priority for all.”
Donald Trump: Defense of Gaza Strip Proposal Amid Regional Tensions
Donald Trump said he is not using U.S. aid to Jordan as a threat, even though he mentioned the large amount of money the U.S. gives to Jordan and Egypt.
"We give a lot of money to Jordan and Egypt, but I don’t need to use that as a threat. I think we’re better than that,” Trump stated.
King Abdullah of Jordan, who has opposed any plans to take land and displace Palestinians, is the first Arab leader to meet with Trump after a plan related to Gaza was brought up.
Trump and King Abdullah were polite to each other, but Trump’s comments about Gaza created a tricky situation for the king. In Jordan, the issue of Palestinians wanting to return to the land they left during the 1948 war is very sensitive.
At one point, Trump seemed to suggest that King Abdullah should take in Palestinians from Gaza. The king responded by saying he would do what was best for Jordan but offered to bring 2,000 sick children from Gaza to Jordan for medical care. Trump praised this offer. “The point is how to make this work in a way that is good for everybody,” he said, looking uneasy and not clearly supporting or rejecting Trump’s plan.
Egypt's Proposal: Alternative Gaza Rebuilding Strategy
On Tuesday night, Egypt’s foreign ministry said it would propose a plan to rebuild the Gaza Strip while prioritizing the protection of Palestinians’ rights to remain in their homeland.
Egypt also said it wants to work with Trump’s administration to find “a fair solution to the Palestinian issue.”
Egypt said its plan would rebuild Gaza in a clear way that ensures Palestinians stay on their land and respects their legal and rightful claims.
Jordan already has over 2 million Palestinian refugees in its population of 11 million. This large number has been a long-time concern for Jordan’s leaders.
Read next:
- Israel Gaza Conflict Is Already Gaining American Involvement
- Trump's Proposed 'Iron Dome for America' Has Sparked Skepticism
- Save Our Allies Is Continuing Its Mission in Israel and Gaza
Sources:
BY ALLISON KIRSCHBAUM
Veteran, Military History & Culture Writer at VeteranLife
Navy Veteran
Allison Kirschbaum is a Navy Veteran and an experienced historian. She has seven years of experience creating compelling digital content across diverse industries, including Military, Defense, History, SaaS, MarTech, FinTech, financial services, insurance, and manufacturing. She brings this expertis...
Credentials
Expertise
Allison Kirschbaum is a Navy Veteran and an experienced historian. She has seven years of experience creating compelling digital content across diverse industries, including Military, Defense, History, SaaS, MarTech, FinTech, financial services, insurance, and manufacturing. She brings this expertis...
