The White House appeared to backtrack Wednesday on President Donald Trump’s remarks suggesting that Palestinians should be permanently resettled from Gaza, following widespread criticism.
During a meeting Tuesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump had proposed relocating Palestinians to a “beautiful area” where they could live permanently, away from ongoing violence in Gaza. He also suggested the United States could take over the territory, saying, “We’ll own it.”
His comments drew global condemnation, particularly after he described a vision for Gaza as “the Riviera of the Middle East” under long-term U.S. administration.
On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sought to clarify Trump’s remarks, stating that any relocation would be temporary.
“The president has made it clear that they need to be temporarily relocated out of Gaza for the rebuilding of this effort,” Leavitt told reporters.
She added, “It’s a demolition site right now. It’s not a livable place for any human being.”
Leavitt also stated that Trump “has not committed” to deploying U.S. troops to Gaza but did not rule out the possibility.
Netanyahu signaled support for the revised position, suggesting Middle Eastern countries could temporarily house displaced Palestinians during reconstruction. Speaking on Fox News’ “Hannity,” he said, “Neighboring states, wealthy states would do it… They can relocate and come back.”
Trump’s remarks come as nearly 16 months of Israeli bombardment have devastated Gaza, where the Hamas-run health ministry reports more than 47,000 casualties. The conflict escalated after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, which killed about 1,200 people and led to the abduction of roughly 250 hostages.
