President Donald Trump said Thursday that no U.S. troops would be required for his proposal to take over the Gaza Strip, clarifying earlier comments that suggested a possible military presence.
In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump said Gaza would be “turned over to the United States at the conclusion of fighting.”
The clarification comes as administration officials appeared to temper the president’s initial language on the proposal. On Tuesday, Trump had suggested the U.S. would deploy troops “if necessary.”
Trump reiterated that Palestinians would be “resettled in far safer and more beautiful communities, with new and modern homes, in the region.” He did not specify locations, as Egypt and Jordan have publicly opposed taking in displaced Palestinians.
The president also said his administration is working “with great development teams from all over the world” on reconstruction plans for Gaza.
Trump’s comments follow his meeting Tuesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, during which he proposed a U.S. takeover of Gaza, stating the site would be “leveled” and rebuilt.
The administration’s approach to Gaza is part of a broader reshaping of U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s second term.
The president is scheduled to speak Thursday at the National Prayer Breakfast before meeting with members of Congress and signing executive orders.
