Trump’s Proposal to Resettle Gazans: A Realistic Solution or Wishful Thinking?

U.S. President Donald Trump recently proposed resettling the population of Gaza in Egypt and Jordan. The suggestion has been met with enthusiasm by many Israeli media figures and YouTubers, who see it as a potential solution to the ongoing conflict. For many Israelis, this idea aligns with their deep-seated desire for peace and security, which has been elusive for decades due to persistent violence and instability in the region.

However, while the idea may appeal to those seeking an end to the Gaza conflict, the question remains: Is this a realistic goal? Would Egypt and Jordan be willing to accept such a plan? History suggests otherwise. Both countries have consistently refused to take Gazan refugees, even during times of intense conflict. Arab nations have often voiced their support for the Palestinian cause but have simultaneously avoided fully integrating Palestinian refugees into their societies. Rather than embracing them as equals, these nations have kept them at arm’s length, often using their plight as a political tool rather than offering them a permanent home.

Beyond the question of resettlement, there are significant challenges regarding Gaza’s future. Who will be responsible for rebuilding the devastated territory? More importantly, who will undertake the task of de-radicalizing a population that, at least in part, continues to support Hamas? Without addressing the ideological and governance issues within Gaza, merely relocating its people does not guarantee long-term peace or stability.

Trump’s proposal raises a legitimate question about the future of Gaza and its people. However, given the historical reluctance of neighboring Arab countries to absorb Palestinian refugees, and the broader geopolitical implications, resettlement seems more like a political statement than a feasible solution. The international community must consider not just the immediate challenges but also the long-term consequences of any plan for Gaza’s future.