US President Donald Trump’s proposal to take “ownership” of Gaza and turn it into a “Riviera” has sparked global outrage, with critics labelling it as ethnic cleansing. However, clarifications from the White House and Secretary of State Marco Rubio now paint a more nuanced picture, suggesting that the plan is not about permanent displacement but rather a temporary relocation of Palestinians for reconstruction. While this may soften the rhetoric, the core issues remain deeply problematic.

At its heart, the proposal dismisses Palestinian agency and sovereignty. Even if the relocation is temporary, it forces nearly two million people out of their homes under duress, creating a humanitarian crisis. Mr Trump’s assertion that Palestinians “have no alternative” but to leave the “big pile of rubble” suggests a disregard for their right to return. Arab nations, including Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, remain wary,........

© The Statesman