Defense Secretary Says US is ‘very long way away’ From Deploying Troops in Gaza
According to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, US President Donald Trump is not currently considering the deployment of US troops into Gaza. Read Full Article at RT.com.
TroibNews 
Donald Trump's proposal on Tuesday to take control of the Gaza Strip has drawn considerable international attention and condemnation.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that President Trump is far from sending American troops to Gaza. On Tuesday, Trump suggested that the U.S. should assume control of the strip and redevelop it following the destruction caused by the 15-month Israel-Hamas conflict. He reiterated his previous position that Palestinians should be relocated to neighboring countries at their expense. When asked about the possibility of deploying U.S. soldiers to support this initiative, Trump remarked he would "do what is necessary."
The following day, Hegseth appeared on Fox News to clarify the president’s comments regarding potential U.S. military involvement in Gaza.
“I think we're a very long way from that," the defense secretary stated, noting that there would need to be "robust discussions" among Trump, national security officials, and allies before any such move. Hegseth explained that Israel is focused on “finishing the job against Hamas” and securing the return of hostages, and the U.S. will assist in that effort.
“What happens after that is a longer conversation... You don't want to have to use American boots at all if you don't have to,” he added.
Hegseth acknowledged Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's earlier remarks regarding Trump's unconventional ideas for Gaza, saying, “As he said, think outside the box.” He emphasized the potential to shift perceptions about what is possible through ongoing discussions.
Netanyahu, in response to Trump's plan, commended the U.S. president for his unique approach, suggesting that the decision on Gaza could “change history.”
Trump's proposal has triggered widespread international backlash, with the Palestinian leadership denouncing it as “a significant violation of international law.” Neighboring Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Jordan, and Egypt, have also voiced their opposition, advocating for the right of Palestinians to remain in Gaza.
Aarav Patel contributed to this report for TROIB News
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that President Trump is far from sending American troops to Gaza. On Tuesday, Trump suggested that the U.S. should assume control of the strip and redevelop it following the destruction caused by the 15-month Israel-Hamas conflict. He reiterated his previous position that Palestinians should be relocated to neighboring countries at their expense. When asked about the possibility of deploying U.S. soldiers to support this initiative, Trump remarked he would "do what is necessary."
The following day, Hegseth appeared on Fox News to clarify the president’s comments regarding potential U.S. military involvement in Gaza.
“I think we're a very long way from that," the defense secretary stated, noting that there would need to be "robust discussions" among Trump, national security officials, and allies before any such move. Hegseth explained that Israel is focused on “finishing the job against Hamas” and securing the return of hostages, and the U.S. will assist in that effort.
“What happens after that is a longer conversation... You don't want to have to use American boots at all if you don't have to,” he added.
Hegseth acknowledged Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's earlier remarks regarding Trump's unconventional ideas for Gaza, saying, “As he said, think outside the box.” He emphasized the potential to shift perceptions about what is possible through ongoing discussions.
Netanyahu, in response to Trump's plan, commended the U.S. president for his unique approach, suggesting that the decision on Gaza could “change history.”
Trump's proposal has triggered widespread international backlash, with the Palestinian leadership denouncing it as “a significant violation of international law.” Neighboring Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Jordan, and Egypt, have also voiced their opposition, advocating for the right of Palestinians to remain in Gaza.
Aarav Patel contributed to this report for TROIB News
