Thu Feb 06 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **Trump Proposes Long-Term US Control of Gaza Reconstruction, Sparks Backlash**
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s proposal to take long-term control of Gaza’s reconstruction, potentially deploying US troops, has sparked immediate controversy, with top administration officials offering conflicting statements to clarify the president’s vision.
On Tuesday, President Trump suggested a scenario involving “long-term” US ownership of a redeveloped Gaza, stating, “We’ll do what is necessary,” including the potential deployment of US troops. He envisioned a “beautiful area to resettle people, permanently,” and described a potential “Riviera of the Middle East.” These comments caused alarm internationally and within the Republican party.
However, on Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attempted to mitigate the fallout. Rubio described the proposal as a “generous move” to aid in debris removal, munitions clearance, and reconstruction, allowing residents to eventually return. Leavitt emphasized that the president’s comments did not represent a commitment to sending troops and that any relocation would be temporary. Crucially, both Rubio and Leavitt downplayed the president’s remarks regarding long-term US ownership and permanent resettlement, contradicting Trump’s statements directly.
The discrepancy between Trump’s initial vision and the subsequent clarifications from his administration raises questions about the actual US plan for Gaza’s future. While Trump envisioned a scenario of significant US involvement and long-term control, his spokespeople presented a more limited picture focusing on reconstruction aid and temporary relocation, without committing to US financial responsibility for the massive project. The differing narratives have left significant ambiguity regarding the US role in Gaza’s future.
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