President Donald Trump suggested Tuesday that displaced Palestinians be permanently resettled outside Gaza and proposed the U.S. take “ownership” in redeveloping the area. His remarks drew swift opposition and were certain to roil the ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel.
Trump outlined his thinking as he held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Netanyahu is facing competing pressure from his right-wing coalition to end a temporary truce against Hamas militants in Gaza and from war-weary Israelis who want the remaining hostages home and for the war to end.
The first phase of the ceasefire began last month, and Hamas said Tuesday it had begun talks with international mediators in the second phase of the negotiations. The first phase halted fighting, allowed more humanitarian aid into Gaza and exchanged Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages taken during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that started the war.
Latest Developments:
- Australia, New Zealand still support a 2-state solution
- Trump’s remarks on Gaza rejected by Hamas, shock Mideast
- Saudi Arabia says its call for an independent Palestinian state is unwavering
- Funeral held in Gaza for al-Qassam commander
- Egypt, Jordan and other U.S. allies caution Trump on relocating Palestinians
- Palestinian Authority forms committee to manage recovery in Gaza
- Family members of Thai hostages released by Hamas visit them in Israeli hospital
Reaction from World Leaders:
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated support for a two-state solution. Saudi Arabia affirmed its commitment to an independent Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital. Qatar's Prime Minister expressed support for the Lebanese army. Turkey announced plans to host 15 Palestinian prisoners released as part of the ceasefire.
Challenges in Gaza:
Large piles of garbage have risen among the rubble in Gaza City, adding to the challenges faced by returning Palestinians. The Israeli military reported two soldiers killed and eight wounded in a shooting attack in the West Bank. Hamas officials claim Israel has not abided by all terms of the ceasefire.
