WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has softened his approach on taking control of war-torn Gaza and relocating its over two million residents to neighboring countries, clarifying that he was only recommending the idea.
Trump had caused global shock earlier this month by proposing a controversial plan where Washington would take over Gaza, rebuild it, and pressure Egypt and Jordan to accept displaced Palestinians.
However, in an interview on Friday, the Republican president admitted that Jordanian and Egyptian leaders had rejected the proposal, labeling the forced displacement of Palestinians as unjust.
🗣️ “I was a little surprised they’d say that, but they did,” Trump told Fox News Radio’s ‘The Brian Kilmeade Show’, adding that the US provides billions in aid to those countries annually.
🛠️ “The way to do it is my plan. I think that’s a plan that really works, but I’m not forcing it,” Trump said.
🚦 “I’m just gonna sit back and recommend it.”
Trump’s remarks came as Arab leaders convened in Riyadh on Friday to formulate a proposal for Gaza’s post-conflict reconstruction, aiming to counter Trump’s controversial strategy.
