In a move that has ignited global controversy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thrown his full support behind U.S. President Donald Trump’s radical proposal to “take over” Gaza. The plan, which suggests relocating large numbers of Palestinians to neighbouring countries while placing Gaza under long-term external control, has been met with widespread condemnation.
But amid the backlash, Netanyahu remains steadfast. He called the idea “remarkable,” questioning why anyone would oppose allowing Gazans who wish to leave the opportunity to do so—while simultaneously insisting they would have the right to return.
The proposal, unveiled by Trump during a joint press conference with Netanyahu, has drawn fierce criticism from human rights organizations and foreign leaders alike. Many argue that the plan violates international law, with some even labelling it as a form of ethnic cleansing. Western allies of the U.S. have also distanced themselves from the plan, reaffirming their commitment to a two-state solution.
A Plan Without a Roadmap?
While Trump has pitched the idea as a definitive solution to the decades-old conflict, key details remain murky. Would Palestinians leave voluntarily, or would force be involved? How would Gaza be governed under this new structure? Would the U.S. or Israel commit military resources to maintain control? So far, answers remain elusive.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has already instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare plans for the voluntary departure of Gazans. But even he acknowledges that such a transition would take “many years.” During this period, Katz envisions Palestinians integrating into host countries while a reconstructed, demilitarized Gaza emerges post-Hamas.
However, this raises a critical question: Will host countries accept displaced Palestinians? Israeli ministry claims that nations like Spain, Ireland, and Norway—each of which has accused Israel of breaking international law—are legally obligated to accept Gazan refugees. Yet these nations have not indicated any willingness to comply.
Gaza’s Reality: A War Without an End?
Meanwhile, the situation on the ground remains dire. After 15 months of relentless Israeli bombardment in response to Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attacks, much of Gaza lies in ruins.
Despite this devastation, Hamas continues to operate, with reports suggesting that it has replenished its ranks as quickly as it has lost them. This persistent cycle of destruction and resurgence raises doubts about the effectiveness of Israel’s military strategy and the feasibility of a post-Hamas Gaza.
Netanyahu insists that his government will not relent until Hamas is entirely dismantled. “We have decimated most of Hamas’ military power, not all,” he declared, vowing to prevent its resurgence. However, history has shown that Hamas, despite Israeli offensives, has an uncanny ability to regroup.
A Turning Point or a Diplomatic Disaster?
As the world watches, one thing is clear: this proposal is a major departure from decades of U.S. foreign policy, which has consistently emphasized a negotiated two-state solution. If implemented, Trump’s plan could mark a seismic shift in the region’s geopolitical landscape—one that could either break the cycle of conflict or deepen it beyond repair. But with strong opposition from key global players and no clear logistical framework, one must ask—does this proposal represent a visionary step toward peace, or is it a dangerous gamble with the lives of millions?