Trump’s Gaza proposal

US President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion that Jordan and Egypt should take in some 1.5 million displaced Palestinians from Gaza has stirred alarm across the Middle East, raising profound concerns about the political and humanitarian ramifications of such a move. For Palestinians, any attempt to forcibly relocate them evokes painful historical memories of the Nakba. The notion of resettling Gaza’s population elsewhere is seen as a direct assault on their right to return and their aspirations for self-determination.

The suggestion to move large numbers of people from Gaza ignores the complex realities on the ground and risks exacerbating an already volatile situation. Relocating Palestinians to the Sinai or elsewhere would not only stretch the capacities of neighbouring states but would also create new political tensions and security risks, further destabilising the region. Regrettably, Trump’s comments reveal the persistent tendency to treat the Palestinian issue as a secondary concern in broader Middle East peace efforts. The focus remains on political and strategic alliances, rather than addressing the fundamental issue of Palestinian rights. The Arab world has consistently emphasised that the Palestinian question must be resolved on the basis of justice, equality and international law – not through coercive measures that strip Palestinians of their right to self-determination.

A lasting solution to the Palestinian issue must be rooted in the recognition of their rights and sovereignty. Trump’s proposal to move Palestinians out of Gaza is not only impractical, but is also dangerous, as it undermines the very principles of justice and peace that must guide any resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Until the international community acknowledges these fundamental rights, any attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians will be nothing more than a temporary and futile measure that fails to address the root causes of the conflict.