President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stood united at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday, presenting a dramatic vision for Gaza's future that would see the complete eradication of Hamas and a controversial plan to relocate the territory's Palestinian population to neighboring nations.
Trump's Bold Gaza Vision
In a stunning departure from decades of failed Middle East policy, President Trump proposed that countries like Jordan and Egypt absorb Gaza's approximately two million residents, describing the war-ravaged strip as a 'demolition site' that could be transformed into prime real estate.
"We're talking about probably a million and a half people, and we just clean out that whole thing and say, 'You know what, it's over,'" Trump declared, adding that Gaza could become "the Riviera of the Middle East."
The President emphasized that his administration would work to build housing in other locations for displaced Palestinians, suggesting the move would ultimately benefit everyone involved.
Netanyahu Praises Trump's Leadership
Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed profound gratitude for Trump's unwavering support of Israel, calling the President a "great friend" and praising his decisive action in restoring military aid that the Biden administration had controversially withheld.
"You've changed history," Netanyahu told Trump, crediting American support for Israel's military successes against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian-backed forces throughout the region.
Netanyahu confirmed that Israeli operations have decimated Hamas's military capabilities, with approximately 20,000 terrorists eliminated and its governing infrastructure completely dismantled.
Hostage Crisis Takes Center Stage
Both leaders addressed the ongoing hostage situation, with Trump demanding the immediate release of all remaining captives held by Hamas. The President made clear that failure to return hostages – including American citizens – would result in consequences that would make the current conflict "look like it was a nice life."
Netanyahu announced that 900 imprisoned Palestinians would be released as part of the ongoing negotiations, while emphasizing Israel's commitment to recovering every hostage, living or deceased.
A New Era in Middle East Policy
The joint appearance signals a dramatic shift from the Biden administration's often contentious relationship with Israel. Trump repeatedly criticized his predecessor's handling of the conflict, particularly the withholding of weapons shipments that he claims prolonged the war.
"We're going to get it done fast," Trump promised, expressing confidence that his administration's approach would bring lasting peace to a region that has known only conflict for generations.
The proposal has already sparked international debate, but Trump appeared unfazed, suggesting that his unconventional approach may be exactly what's needed to finally resolve one of the world's most intractable conflicts.