U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed plan for Gaza draws concern from global leaders, with critics arguing it disregards Palestinian sovereignty and imposes conditions favoring Israel. Announced in February 2025, the plan suggests relocating displaced Palestinians to areas outside Gaza while introducing strict security measures under Israeli oversight.
According to Al Jazeera, a news network in the Middle East, the plan faces rejection by “every Palestinian faction,” with the Palestinian Authority claiming it erases Palestinian identity. The United Nations (UN) and several world leaders also denounce the proposal, stating it violates international law and undermines efforts toward a two-state solution.
“Any forcible transfer in or deportation of people from occupied territory is strictly prohibited,” UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in response to Trump’s statements.
Trump’s proposal emerges amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in Gaza. The enclave faces extensive destruction, with thousands of buildings reduced to rubble. Coordinating with international donors, the Egyptian government has attempted to spearhead reconstruction efforts. NPR reported, “Cairo has hosted multiple meetings to discuss Gaza’s future, but rebuilding remains stalled due to political uncertainty and logistical challenges.”
Gazans, enduring severe shortages of food, water and medical supplies, respond with frustration. Many Gazans view Trump’s plan as an effort to displace them rather than rebuild their homeland.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Gazan resident Imad al-Qassas, a 60-year-old father of six, shares his thoughts on the possibility of displacement.
“Where would we even go? Even if the border crossings were opened and voluntary migration was offered, I would never leave, no matter how difficult my situation,” al-Qassas said.
Despite international scrutiny, Trump defends the plan, claiming it offers “a practical solution to a difficult situation.” The Israeli government expresses support for aspects of the proposal, particularly the security measures while maintaining that Hamas must disarm themselves before any negotiations proceed.
Efforts to reconstruct Gaza remain stalled, with disagreements over governance and funding further complicating progress. Egypt has coordinated with Gulf states and Western donors, but NPR notes that “political roadblocks and security concerns have delayed the delivery of materials.” Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations warn that living conditions will continue to deteriorate without immediate aid.
Leaders from Arab League states expect to meet in Cairo on Tuesday to jointly reject calls for displacement and discuss counterproposals. The effort, spearheaded by Egypt, coordinates with Saudi Arabia and others in the region. Egypt plays a key role in drafting a regional response to the U.S. and Israel, advocating for Palestinian-led solutions and leveraging diplomatic pressure to block forced relocation efforts.
With global leaders rejecting Trump’s plan, attention has shifted towards diplomatic alternatives. The European Union calls for a renewed commitment to the two-state solution, and Egypt emphasizes the need for Palestinian-led reconstruction efforts. Without a consensus among them, the future of Gaza remains uncertain.
