President Donald Trump has proposed that the United States take over Gaza and resettle Palestinians, envisioning a “Riviera of the Middle East.” However, Trump’s controversial suggestion has drawn sharp criticism from Arab American and Muslim leaders, who see it as a gross overstep and a threat to lasting peace in the Middle East.
During a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Donald Trump outlined his ideas for the United States to “take over” Gaza, relocate Palestinians to neighboring countries, and redevelop the war-torn territory into a luxurious resort, “Riviera of the Middle East,” while not ruling out the deployment of U.S. troops.
The proposal has been met with extensive condemnation, with leaders calling it unrealistic and antithetical to peace.
Bishara Bahbah, founder of Arab Americans for Peace, formerly Arab Americans for Trump, expressed frustration, saying, “We believe that his ideas, as well-intentioned as they might be, rubbed a lot of people the wrong way.” He added, “We’re opposed to any transfer of Palestinians, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, out of their homeland.”
Siblani, a spokesperson for the Arab American Political Action Committee, likened Trump’s rhetoric to that of a “crazy man” and said they would not advance the cause of peace. He said, “Instead of helping people to recover, he’s trying to take advantage of their misery.” “I can’t believe that a president of the United States is making such a suggestion.
A co-founder of Muslims for Trump, Rabiul Chowdhury, said he was frustrated that no viable long-term solution for peace and rebuilding has been discussed for Gaza. However, he said, “Conflating Trump’s rhetoric with the actions of Biden and Harris is not only disingenuous but outright dishonest.” “If we were to equate Trump’s actions with those of Biden and Harris, the contrast would be undeniable—Trump is the better option.”
While some Trump supporters believe he is the best option for peace, others see his rhetoric as a step too far. Trump’s proposal may be seen as a misguided attempt to solve a complex issue with a simplistic solution.
