Trump’s Gaza Plan: A Strategic Misstep and Global Impact

President Donald Trump’s recent proposal regarding a U.S. takeover of Gaza has sent shockwaves across the Middle East. With Israel preparing contingency plans for Palestinian displacement and the U.S. hinting at long-term control over the Gaza Strip, the plan has sparked concerns of ethnic cleansing, disrupted diplomatic efforts, and reinforced regional instability. As Pakistan maintains a firm stance on Palestinian sovereignty, Trump’s plan raises critical questions about the future of the Middle East and the role of global powers in shaping it.

The Proposal: U.S. Control Over Gaza

Trump’s statement that the U.S. would "own Gaza and be responsible for dismantling unexploded bombs and other weapons" reflects a dramatic shift in American foreign policy. The president went so far as to suggest transforming Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East," a notion that was quickly rebuffed by global leaders and Palestinian representatives. While the White House later softened its stance, claiming that no commitment had been made to rebuild Gaza or deploy troops, Trump doubled down on his remarks, indicating a potential Israeli handover of the territory to the U.S.

A Setback for the Two-State Solution

Trump’s proposal undermines decades of negotiations aimed at achieving a two-state solution. By suggesting direct U.S. control over Gaza, Washington signals a departure from its previous commitments to Palestinian self-determination. The move has been widely criticized by the United Nations and other international bodies, with concerns that it would serve as a justification for Hamas to abandon ongoing ceasefire agreements and reignite conflict.

Pakistan’s Response: Upholding Palestinian Sovereignty

As a staunch advocate for Palestinian rights, Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to the two-state solution, emphasizing that any attempt to displace Palestinians is unacceptable. Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani condemned Trump’s remarks, calling them "a blatant disregard for Palestinian identity and sovereignty." Pakistan has consistently raised the issue at international forums, reinforcing its stance that the Palestinian people must be given their right to self-rule rather than becoming pawns in geopolitical power plays.

Political Gains for Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands to benefit politically from Trump’s proposal. With Israel's far-right factions pushing for permanent control over Palestinian territories, the plan could serve as a justification for maintaining a military presence in Gaza indefinitely. By removing any prospects of Palestinian statehood, Netanyahu can present himself as the only leader capable of securing Israel’s long-term strategic interests.

The Risk of Displacing Palestinians Again

A forced displacement of Palestinians would not only violate international law but also exacerbate regional instability. Many Gazans are already refugees from the 1948 Nakba, when they were expelled from their homes during the creation of Israel. Displacing them once more could trigger a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions.

Regional Fallout: Threats to Stability

Trump’s plan has sparked outrage across the Arab world. Egypt and Jordan, key players in maintaining regional stability, have warned that any attempt to expel Palestinians into their territories would destabilize their governments and fuel extremism.

Egypt’s Firm Opposition

Egypt, which shares a border with Gaza, has expressed strong opposition to any plan that involves displacing Palestinians into the Sinai Peninsula. The Egyptian government has warned that such a move could lead to the collapse of its peace treaty with Israel. Egyptian state media, opposition groups, and even the banned Muslim Brotherhood have united in condemning the proposal.

Jordan’s Political Crisis

Jordan, where a significant portion of the population is of Palestinian origin, faces a similar predicament. The proposal has inflamed tensions within the country, particularly among political factions that support Palestinian sovereignty. If forced displacement were to occur, it could lead to mass protests and even destabilize the Jordanian monarchy.

Iran and Regional Power Shifts

The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East is already volatile, and Trump’s plan threatens to escalate tensions further. Iran, which has positioned itself as a defender of Palestinian rights, could use the situation to rally support for its regional allies, including Hezbollah and various militant factions. A U.S. takeover of Gaza could reignite conflicts across Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, drawing Iran further into the fray and increasing the likelihood of a broader regional war.

The Broader Implications for Pakistan

Pakistan has long supported Palestinian self-determination and opposes any action that threatens the stability of the Middle East. The country has already condemned Israeli aggression in Gaza and has been vocal in the United Nations regarding the rights of Palestinians. If Trump's plan were to materialize, it would set a dangerous precedent for other territorial disputes, potentially affecting Pakistan’s stance on issues like Kashmir.

Conclusion: A Dangerous Gamble

Trump’s Gaza plan is more than just a controversial policy proposal; it is a direct challenge to international law and regional stability. The potential displacement of Palestinians, the undermining of the two-state solution, and the empowerment of far-right Israeli factions all contribute to an increasingly precarious situation. For Pakistan and other nations that support Palestinian sovereignty, the plan represents yet another attempt to sideline the Palestinian cause in favor of geopolitical maneuvering.

The global community must take a firm stand against any actions that threaten Palestinian identity and self-rule. If peace is to be achieved in the Middle East, it cannot come at the cost of displacing an entire population and handing over occupied land to foreign powers.

Source: Chatham House