WASHINGTON: Several European leaders have rejected US President Donald Trump's controversial plan to "take over" Gaza and forcibly resettle its Palestinian population in other countries. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated that the only path to peace is through a negotiated two-state solution, emphasizing that Gaza, like the West Bank and East Jerusalem, belongs to the Palestinians. Baerbock warned that any attempt to forcibly expel the civilian population would violate international law and escalate tensions.
According to Anadolu Agency, France also dismissed Trump's proposal, insisting that Gaza should remain part of a future Palestinian state. The French Foreign Ministry reiterated its opposition to any forced displacement of Palestinians, viewing it as a severe violation of international law and a significant barrier to achieving a two-state solution. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for Palestinians in Gaza to be allowed to return home and rebuild.
Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares joined the chorus of disapproval, rejecting the idea of US control over Gaza and affirming Spain's commitment to a future Palestinian state that includes Gaza. Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Szejna highlighted the necessity of Palestinian participation in the peace process, while Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon criticized Trump's comments as a display of ignorance about Palestinian history.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney condemned the proposal, labeling any suggestion of displacing Palestinians as "unacceptable and dangerous." The Swiss Foreign Ministry noted its ongoing monitoring of international discourse, particularly statements from the new US administration, reiterating Switzerland's support for a two-state solution.
The Belgian Foreign Ministry, in a statement on X, described the forced displacement of Gaza's population as a "grave breach of international humanitarian law." The country underscored the importance of respecting international law to ensure stability in the Middle East.
Further reactions included a strong condemnation from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which called Trump's remarks "illegal" and part of a "grotesque plan" for ethnic cleansing. The Muslim Council of Britain advocated for Gaza's reconstruction to be led by Palestinians, warning against any plans involving displacement.
Amnesty International urged widespread condemnation of Trump's proposal, describing it as "unlawful and appalling." Amnesty Denmark drew parallels between Trump's plan and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, warning of the criminal implications of a US takeover of Gaza.
During a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump stated that the US intended to "take over" Gaza under a redevelopment plan after relocating Palestinians, claiming it could transform the enclave into "the Riviera of the Middle East."