Trump proposes U.S. control of Gaza in move that would permanently displace Palestinians
The fragile Gaza ceasefire faces uncertainty as new details about emaciated hostages and U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial Gaza plan dominate headlines. With talks on the second phase of the ceasefire stalled, pressure is mounting on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to extend the truce and secure the release of more hostages.
Growing Pressure to Extend the Gaza Ceasefire
The ceasefire, which began on January 19, has brought temporary relief to the region after 16 months of conflict. However, negotiations for the second phase, aimed at releasing more hostages and ensuring a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, have made little progress. Talks were scheduled to begin on February 3, but both Israel and Hamas remain at an impasse.
On Sunday, Israeli forces withdrew from the Netzarim corridor, a key military zone separating northern and southern Gaza. This move was seen as a gesture of commitment to the truce. Despite this, the ceasefire remains fragile, with reports of Israeli fire killing three people east of Gaza City on Sunday.
Trump’s Bold Gaza Plan: Ownership and Rebuilding
Amid the ongoing negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited global debate with his pledge to take control of the Gaza Strip. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump stated, “We’re committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn’t move back.” He suggested that Gaza could be rebuilt under U.S. oversight, with other Middle Eastern states potentially contributing to the effort.
Trump’s proposal has been met with mixed reactions. While some in Israel have expressed openness to the idea, Hamas, Palestinians, and much of the international community have rejected it. Critics argue that the plan faces significant moral, legal, and practical obstacles.
Emaciated Hostages Highlight Urgency
The release of several hostages in recent days has shed light on the dire conditions they endured. Families of the hostages have expressed shock and urgency, calling on the Israeli government to act swiftly.
- Ella Ben Ami, whose father was released on Saturday, described the toll of captivity as “much worse than imagined.”
- Kobi Ohel, father of a remaining hostage, revealed that the newly released men reported living on “half a pita to a full pita a day.”
- Michael Levy shared that his brother, Or Levy, had been barefoot and hungry for 16 months.
These harrowing accounts have intensified calls for Netanyahu to prioritize the hostages’ release.
International Reactions and Arab Summit
Trump’s Gaza plan and Netanyahu’s comments about resettling Gaza’s population have sparked widespread condemnation. Saudi Arabia criticized Netanyahu’s remarks as an attempt to divert attention from “crimes committed by the Israeli occupation.” Qatar labeled the comments “provocative” and a violation of international law.
In response to the escalating tensions, Egypt announced it will host an emergency Arab summit on February 27 to address the “new and dangerous developments” in Gaza.
Will the Ceasefire Hold?
While the ceasefire has held so far, its extension is far from guaranteed. The withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Netzarim corridor and the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza are positive steps. However, the fragility of the truce was underscored by Sunday’s violence near Gaza City.
Former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant acknowledged that the deteriorating conditions of the hostages have been known for some time, adding to the urgency of resolving the crisis.
Call to Action
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with the lives of hostages and the future of the region hanging in the balance. Stay informed about the latest developments by subscribing to our newsletter and following our updates. Share this article to raise awareness and join the conversation about the path to peace in Gaza.
