Washington: US President Donald Trump's recent proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza and place the territory under long-term US control has sparked widespread international backlash. Unveiled during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the plan envisions transforming Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East" by resettling Palestinians in neighboring countries like Jordan and Egypt.
According to Anadolu Agency, while the proposal received support from Israel, the global response has been overwhelmingly negative, with strong condemnations from major powers, regional countries, and even US lawmakers. Both Russia and China criticized the plan, highlighting the violation of international norms. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed Russia's support for a two-state solution, while the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that populist comments are counter-productive and ramp up tensions. China condemned the forced displacement, emphasizing that "Palestinians governing Palestine" is fundamental for post-conflict stability.
European countries have also been vocal in their opposition to the plan. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock labeled the proposal a breach of international law, stressing that Gaza belongs to the Palestinians. France reiterated its opposition to any forced displacement, calling it a serious violation of international law. The UK, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, supported Palestinian rights to return and rebuild, while Denmark expressed that the plan does not seem to be a realistic way forward.
Italy's foreign minister reasserted support for the two-state solution, noting the difficulty in implementing the plan without Palestinian involvement. Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, having recognized Palestine in 2024, condemned the plan for ignoring Palestinian history and contradicting UN Security Council resolutions. Belgium stated that forced displacement of populations constitutes a grave breach of international humanitarian law, while Poland expressed support for a two-state solution. Canada maintained its longstanding position on Gaza and commitment to achieving a two-state solution.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned the plan as unacceptable, stressing the wrongness of even considering such a proposal. The Turkish Defense Ministry declared its opposition to the displacement of Palestinians. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas rejected the plan outright, stating that peace cannot be attained without a Palestinian state. The Hamas group called it hostile, and Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia warned it would destabilize the region. Iran and Iraq also voiced firm opposition to the plan.
Despite originating in Washington, the plan faced criticism from US lawmakers. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen condemned it as ethnic cleansing by another name, while Representative Rashida Tlaib, a Palestinian-American, declared that Palestinians aren't going anywhere. Even Republican figures like Senator Lindsey Graham found the proposal problematic, and Senator Tim Kaine labeled it deranged.
Trump's Gaza relocation plan has united a broad spectrum of global opposition, transcending geopolitical divides. While no country has openly expressed support for the plan, many countries have remained silent. Argentina, Japan, and India, which sent representatives to Trump's inauguration, have not made any statements on the issue. Countries that want to maintain good relations with the new US administration have also remained silent. Latin American countries, where Trump has cracked down on immigration and drugs, have so far kept mum.
Aside from Israel, the international community remains steadfast in rejecting forced displacement, advocating instead for a two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace in the region.