President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal for the United States to assume control of the Gaza Strip and relocate its Palestinian population has drawn harsh criticism from both sides of the political aisle. Lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties are calling the plan “deranged” and “problematic,” with many warning it could violate human rights and destabilize the region.
The proposal, revealed during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, involves relocating Gaza’s residents to neighbouring countries and redeveloping the area into what Trump described as the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
Republican and Democratic Lawmakers Push Back
The backlash has been swift and bipartisan.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) expressed deep scepticism about the plan. “This is problematic, to say the least. I can’t see my constituents supporting the idea of sending U.S. troops to Gaza or getting entangled in another Middle Eastern conflict,” he said.
On the Democratic side, Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) called the plan “an act of ethnic cleansing.” Tlaib, who is of Palestinian descent, strongly condemned the proposal to forcibly remove Palestinians from their homes. “This plan is a blatant violation of international law and basic human decency,” she said.
International Allies Reject the Proposal
The proposal has also sparked negative reactions from U.S. allies in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia and Egypt, both critical players in regional peace efforts, have rejected the plan outright. Officials from both nations emphasized their continued support for a two-state solution, warning that Trump’s plan could inflame tensions and lead to further conflict.
“We will not support any effort that undermines the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” a senior Egyptian official said.
Human Rights Groups Sound the Alarm
Human rights organizations have condemned Trump’s proposal, with many arguing that forcibly relocating Gaza’s residents amounts to a violation of international law. Eleanor Acer from Human Rights First described the plan as “reckless” and warned that it could trigger a humanitarian crisis.
“This isn’t just a bad idea—it’s a dangerous one that could destabilize the region and cause unimaginable suffering,” she said.
Trump Defends His Proposal
Despite the backlash, President Trump has doubled down on the plan, insisting that relocating Palestinians is the best way to protect them from violence and instability. He argued that under U.S. control, Gaza could be transformed into a prosperous and peaceful region. “We’re talking about giving these people a better future,” Trump said.
However, given the widespread opposition from both U.S. lawmakers and international leaders, the proposal faces significant obstacles.
What’s Next?
As opposition mounts, analysts say the plan is unlikely to move forward without substantial revisions. The coming weeks will determine whether the administration pushes ahead or is forced to abandon the controversial proposal.