Netanyahu Says Trump’s Gaza Proposal Might ‘change history’
US President Donald Trump's proposal for the United States to assume control over Gaza “could change history,” according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Read Full Article at RT.com
During a joint press conference at the White House on Tuesday, Trump outlined his plans for the US to take control of the enclave, which would involve clearing remnants of damaged buildings and rebuilding the area. He reiterated his stance that Palestinians should be permanently resettled outside of Gaza.
Netanyahu welcomed Trump's proposal, calling it a potentially historic initiative. He emphasized one of Israel's primary objectives throughout the 15-month conflict: "to make sure Gaza never poses a threat to Israel again."
Referring to Trump’s strategy, Netanyahu remarked, “He has a different idea, and I think it's worth paying attention to this. We're talking about it. He's exploring it with his people, with his staff. I think it's something that could change history and it's worthwhile really pursuing.”
“President Trump is taking it to a much higher level. He sees a different future for that piece of land,” Netanyahu added, emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking in negotiations. “Your willingness to puncture conventional thinking – thinking that has failed time and time again – your willingness to think outside the box with fresh ideas will help us achieve all these goals.”
The Israeli Prime Minister also hailed Trump as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” citing several of Trump's pro-Israel actions during his first term, including the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the relocation of the US embassy, endorsement of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and the withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal.
Trump’s plan envisions the US taking control of Gaza, revitalizing it into the “Riviera of the Middle East,” while proposing to resettle approximately 2 million Palestinian residents to other locations. When questioned about the possibility of deploying US soldiers to Gaza, Trump indicated he would send troops if “necessary.”
Mark B Thomas for TROIB News