Johannesburg: Norway and Spain have firmly rejected US President Donald Trump's proposal to expel Palestinians from Gaza, labeling it a violation of international law and reiterating their support for Palestinian rights.
According to Anadolu Agency, as discussions on Gaza's reconstruction continue against the backdrop of Israel's devastating attacks, Trump's proposal to relocate Palestinians to neighboring Arab countries, such as Jordan and Egypt, has attracted growing international condemnation.
The matter was a key topic at the G20 foreign ministers' meeting held in Johannesburg on February 20-21, where Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide and Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares publicly opposed the plan.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares dismissed Trump's proposal, affirming that Gaza is the rightful land of the Palestinians and that they must remain in the enclave. He underscored Madrid's commitment to supporting Palestinians through humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts to ensure a return to normalcy.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide also voiced concern over Trump's plan, emphasizing that it contradicts international law. He highlighted the importance of improving conditions for Palestinians and supporting their right to statehood. Eide stressed that reconstruction efforts in Gaza must include political restoration and reconnection with the West Bank under a unified Palestinian administration.
Norway continues to work closely with Arab and other interested countries to advance diplomatic efforts toward a recognized Palestinian state. Eide recalled Norway's formal recognition of Palestine last year and its ongoing collaboration with key international partners to achieve this goal.
President Trump's proposal to assume control of Gaza and relocate Palestinians has been widely criticized by the international community. Legal experts and humanitarian organizations have warned of severe consequences should Palestinians be forcibly displaced.
The recent ceasefire deal has paused Israel's ongoing conflict, which resulted in the deaths of over 48,000 people, mostly women and children, and left Gaza in ruins. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.