What does – and doesn’t – make sense about Trump’s Gaza plan

‘The US will take over the Gaza Strip – and we will do a job with it, too’, Donald Trump has said. He also stated that the US would ‘own’ it.

Some aspects of his proposal make sense. For instance, he said that an increased US role would involve dismantling unexploded bombs and clearing out the rubble from the war. This, he argued, would enable Gaza to be transformed into an economic success. Instead of exporting war, Gaza would export peace. ‘Level the site and get rid of the destroyed buildings, level it out, create an economic development that will supply unlimited numbers of jobs and housing for the people of the area,’ Trump said.

The more straightforward part of Trump’s proposal is the removal of debris and securing funding to rebuild areas devastated by 15 months of war. Trump wants regional countries to contribute to the reconstruction. He has already demonstrated his commitment to change by sending his envoy, Steve Witkoff, to the Middle East in early January to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage deal – even before taking office.