On February 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a proposal for the United States to take control of the Gaza Strip following the relocation of its Palestinian residents to neighboring countries such as Egypt and Jordan. He envisions transforming Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East" by redeveloping the area to create jobs and housing. Trump did not rule out deploying U.S. troops to support this initiative and suggested that the U.S. would maintain long-term ownership of the territory.

This proposal has been met with widespread criticism. Saudi Arabia rejected any displacement of Palestinians and reaffirmed its stance on establishing a Palestinian state before normalizing relations with Israel. Hamas and several governments, including Australia, criticized the remarks as "ridiculous" and a potential violation of international law. U.S. Democrats and some Republicans expressed outrage, calling the proposal reckless and likening it to ethnic cleansing. Legal experts and human rights organizations have also condemned the plan, emphasizing the need to uphold international law and protect the rights of the Palestinian people.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was present during the announcement, expressed support for the plan, suggesting it could change history. However, neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan have so far declined the idea of resettling Palestinians from Gaza.

The proposal has sparked protests and further international debate on the future of Gaza and Palestinian rights. Critics argue that forcibly relocating the Palestinian population and taking over the territory would violate international law and could lead to significant human rights abuses.