U.S. President Donald Trump announced a controversial plan on Saturday to evacuate Palestinians from Gaza, describing it as a step toward peace in the Middle East.

Trump called on Egypt and Jordan to take in displaced Palestinians, referring to Gaza as a “destroyed place” and suggesting the move could be temporary or long-term.

Speaking to reporters, Trump stated the plan involves relocating 1.5 million people to “cleanse the entire region” after the devastating war between Israel and Hamas.

He emphasized the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement.

The proposal comes despite previous U.S. opposition to forced displacement of Palestinians.

Human rights organizations and aid agencies have warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the conflict has left most of the population displaced and created severe food shortages.

Trump acknowledged criticism of U.S. support for Israel but defended it as necessary to help Israel counter groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Iran-backed Houthis. He also revealed discussions with Jordan’s King Abdullah II and plans to speak with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to urge their cooperation.

Trump suggested building new housing for Palestinians in other regions, stating, “We need to give them a place to live in peace for a change.” He described Gaza as “literally destroyed” and stressed the need for international cooperation to address the crisis.