Washington: In a controversial interview with Fox News, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Palestinians will not be allowed to return to Gaza under his proposed plan to take control of the territory. Trump reaffirmed his intention to oversee Gaza’s administration, making it clear that Palestinians displaced from the region would be permanently resettled elsewhere.
During a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week, Trump outlined his vision, suggesting that Palestinians would be provided with what he described as “better housing” in new communities, effectively stripping them of the right to return to Gaza.
“I Will Own Gaza,” Trump Declares
Trump elaborated on his plan, likening it to a real estate development project, stating, “I will build beautiful, safe communities for the more than two million Palestinians. These communities will be located away from the dangers of Gaza. In the meantime, I will own Gaza. Think of it as a real estate development for the future—a beautiful piece of land without spending a lot of money.”
His comments have sparked outrage, particularly after his earlier suggestion that Palestinians could continue to live in Gaza. The stark reversal has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations, foreign governments, and legal experts.
Global Backlash and Legal Concerns
Human rights activists have condemned Trump’s proposal, calling it a clear violation of international law. They argue that denying displaced Palestinians the right to return to their homeland violates several key international treaties, including:
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that “everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country.”
- The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which affirms that no one shall be arbitrarily deprived of the right to enter their own country.
- The Geneva Conventions, upheld by the International Committee of the Red Cross, which protect the rights of displaced persons to return voluntarily to their homes.
Legal experts warn that forcibly resettling Palestinians and denying their right of return could potentially be classified as a crime under international law.
Egypt’s Strong Response
The Egyptian Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement, rejecting Trump’s proposal outright.
“Egypt will not accept any measures that violate the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” the statement read. “We oppose any actions that undermine the principles of self-determination, territorial rights, and freedom for the Palestinian people.”
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