“I may not be fully aware of their exact role in the operation, but it is evident that they are involved, and I offer my complete backing,” Trump declared before the global media, expressing his desire for the United States to assume control of the Gaza Strip and relocate the approximately 2 million Palestinians residing there to neighboring Arab countries. In response to inquiries about the potential deployment of US troops to secure the Strip, Trump stated, “If it becomes necessary, we will take that step,” although White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt clarified on Wednesday that “the president has not made any commitments regarding deploying troops to Gaza.”
“We will take responsibility for the area, overseeing the dismantling of all hazardous unexploded ordnances and other weapons present, demolishing the structures, and implementing a comprehensive economic redevelopment plan to generate employment opportunities and housing for the local population,” Trump informed journalists. “We will level the land and establish a thriving economic zone.”
Even within his own party, Trump’s proposal faced skepticism, with Senator Lindsay Graham (R-SC) describing it as “problematic on multiple levels” in an interview with NBC News. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) dismissed the idea as unattainable, asserting, “It is clearly not a feasible proposition,” while acknowledging the existence of significant obstacles.
In a surprising move, Democratic Senator Fetterman offered his support for the initiative, showcasing a willingness to collaborate with the 47th president. Fetterman’s bipartisan approach has been evident in recent decisions, including voting to confirm Attorney General Pam Bondi and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner, as well as being the first Democrat to visit Trump at Mar-a-Lago shortly after his inauguration.
Trump’s Gaza redevelopment plan provoked astonishment among lawmakers from both political parties, with Republicans openly opposing the proposal. Senator Fetterman, however, defended his stance, emphasizing his commitment to serving all Pennsylvanians and striving for bipartisan achievements.
Despite his history of advocating for Israel, Fetterman’s endorsement of Trump’s Gaza strategy sparked criticism, leading to protests outside his Philadelphia office. Demonstrators expressed disappointment and urged Democrats to take a more assertive stance amidst escalating challenges.
Fetterman’s alignment with Trump’s vision for Gaza drew attention to his unconventional approach to governance, characterized by a willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints in pursuit of tangible outcomes.
