The fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza war took effect on Sunday. (File)
Trump Discusses Relocating Gaza Residents to Arab Countries
U.S. President Donald Trump revealed ongoing negotiations with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt, and potentially other Arab nations to persuade them to host residents of the Gaza Strip. The proposal comes as part of efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in the war-torn region.
The U.S. administration has suggested relocating around 1.5 million Palestinians temporarily during reconstruction efforts in Gaza. However, Trump indicated that such resettlements could be either temporary or more permanent in nature.
"The war has left Gaza in ruins, and living there is currently impossible," Trump stated, underscoring the dire situation in the enclave.
Earlier, Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, mentioned the possibility of relocating Palestinians to other countries, including Indonesia. However, Jakarta dismissed the idea, with Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry stating that it was unaware of any White House plan and emphasizing its willingness to assist with post-war reconstruction in Gaza.
In a related move, Trump announced the lifting of a ban on the supply of 2,000-pound (900-kilogram) heavy aerial bombs to Israel, a restriction imposed by his predecessor, Joe Biden, in May 2023. The ban had reportedly contributed to a significant rift in U.S.-Israel relations following Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel.
The assault, carried out by the group designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and EU, resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people and the abduction of approximately 250 individuals, who were taken to Gaza as hostages.
Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, have yet to issue formal statements regarding Trump’s proposal. Analysts suggest that the plan could face significant resistance due to its potential long-term implications for regional stability.
Meanwhile, international humanitarian organizations continue to warn of the worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, stressing the need for immediate aid and a sustainable solution.
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