Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal for the United States to take control of the war-ravaged Gaza Strip has triggered confusion and skepticism among some Republican lawmakers, while others have expressed support for the idea.
During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday, Trump suggested that the U.S. could assume control of Gaza, relocate Palestinian residents elsewhere, and transform the territory into a “Riviera of the Middle East.” The proposal was met with widespread international condemnation and drew mixed reactions from members of Congress, including Republicans who have largely supported Trump’s previous initiatives.
Some Republican lawmakers voiced concerns about the financial and military implications of such a move, arguing that it contradicts the “America First” doctrine. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) took to social media platform X, stating, “I thought we voted for America first? We have no business contemplating yet another occupation to doom our treasure and spill our soldiers’ blood.”
Others reaffirmed their support for a two-state solution, a longstanding pillar of U.S. diplomacy. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) emphasized that the issue cannot be decided unilaterally, while Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) dismissed speculation about deploying U.S. forces to the region, calling the notion “quite frightening.”
Democratic lawmakers were unequivocal in their opposition. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) denounced the proposal, calling it “ethnic cleansing by another name.”
Despite the criticism, some Republican leaders welcomed Trump’s vision. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) described the plan as “bold, decisive action to try to secure the peace of that region.” He added that he would discuss the matter with Netanyahu during the Israeli leader’s upcoming visit to the U.S. Capitol on Thursday.
“I think people understand the necessity of it, and we’re going to stand with Israel as they work towards this goal. And we’ll stand with the President on his initiative,” Johnson said during a press conference.
The debate over Trump’s proposal comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has suffered extensive devastation after more than a year of war. While Republicans hold a narrow majority in Congress, the proposal faces significant bipartisan resistance, casting doubt on its feasibility.
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