On February 5th, protests erupted in Washington against President Trump’s proposal to take "long-term control" of Gaza. During a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Trump suggested the U.S. could oversee Gaza’s reconstruction, referring to the territory as a "demolition site." He also hinted at deploying U.S. troops if necessary, adding that the U.S. would be responsible for dismantling unexploded bombs and flattening the area for economic development.

This plan follows Israel’s failure to displace Gaza's population despite a prolonged conflict, which has caused significant loss of life and destruction. Trump’s suggestion was immediately condemned by Palestinian groups, with Hamas calling it a "recipe for chaos" in the region. The proposal has sparked outrage among various political analysts, including Omar Baddar, who accused Trump of attempting to destroy Palestinian society and scatter its people.

In response, several regional states, including Saudi Arabia, firmly rejected any attempt to relocate Palestinians, reaffirming their support for an independent Palestinian state. International law experts have expressed concern over the legality of Trump’s plan, warning that forced displacement and foreign occupation of Gaza would breach numerous international treaties. Human rights organisations have raised alarms that this could set a dangerous precedent for similar unilateral land grabs.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu supported Trump’s proposal, praising him as "the greatest friend Israel has ever had" and claiming the plan could "change history." Despite this, Netanyahu's visit to the U.S. has drawn condemnation from various organisations, accusing him of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Critics of the plan argue it could increase regional instability and provoke further resistance within Palestinian territories and beyond.