More countries in the Middle East are voicing strong opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate residents of the Gaza Strip elsewhere. On Tuesday, Trump suggested that the United States would take over Gaza and redevelop it after Palestinians are relocated.
The proposal has been met with widespread rejection from Arab and Muslim nations. The Palestinian presidency emphasized that Palestine’s land, history, and holy sites are not for sale. Spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh stated, “The Palestinian people, who have made immense sacrifices in defense of their national rights, will not relinquish even an inch of their land, including the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.”
Egypt reaffirmed its commitment on Thursday to support Gaza’s recovery and reconstruction, insisting that Palestinians remain in the Gaza Strip. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry rejected any vision that seeks to displace the Palestinian people from their historical land.
Algeria condemned the proposal, warning that such moves are part of a broader scheme to undermine the Palestinian cause. The Algerian Foreign Ministry reiterated its support for the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the two-state solution.
Libya also rejected any attempt to displace Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. The Libyan Foreign Ministry stressed its absolute rejection of practices aimed at forced displacement or changing the demographic composition of occupied territories.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan rejected the proposal during a joint press conference in Ankara. He emphasized the international community’s responsibility to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza and continue efforts for a two-state solution. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan added, “We oppose any initiatives that seek to exclude the people of Gaza from the equation.”
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit reiterated that the U.S. proposal is rejected by Arab countries. He urged the speeding up of Gaza’s reconstruction to prevent the displacement of Gazans. “The Palestinian people will not allow the repetition of cleansing Palestinians under the pretext of voluntary or forced exit,” he stated.
The unified stance of Middle Eastern countries highlights a strong regional commitment to Palestinian rights and sovereignty, rejecting any proposals that involve displacing Palestinians from their homeland.
