Washington, D.C.: In a significant reversal, US President Donald Trump has clarified that no Palestinians will be expelled from Gaza, walking back on one of his most controversial proposals. The statement comes after weeks of mounting criticism and diplomatic pressure over Trump’s earlier suggestion that Palestinians should be permanently removed from the Gaza Strip as part of a US-led peace initiative.
Background of the Controversy
President Trump had previously proposed a US-backed takeover of Gaza, arguing that such a move would bring long-term stability to the region. His remarks included suggestions that Palestinians could be relocated, which sparked outrage from Palestinian leaders and the international community. Critics warned that such a move would amount to forced displacement, violating international law and further inflaming tensions in the Middle East.
Trump’s proposal was met with immediate backlash from key US allies, the United Nations, and human rights organizations. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the idea as “ethnic cleansing,” while Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, expressed strong opposition. The European Union also warned that any attempt to alter the demographic balance of Gaza would be unacceptable.
Trump’s Reversal
In a press conference on Thursday, Trump attempted to ease tensions by stating:
“Nobody is expelling any Palestinians. I want to make that very clear. We are focused on peace and stability in the region, and any solution will involve the Palestinian people remaining in their homeland.”
Trump’s reversal is seen as a strategic move to salvage diplomatic relations and prevent further alienation of Middle Eastern allies. His softened stance suggests a shift in US policy toward Gaza, moving away from aggressive intervention toward a more balanced diplomatic approach.
International Reaction
Following Trump’s clarification, the Palestinian Authority called the statement “a step in the right direction” but insisted that any peace process must include a two-state solution. A spokesperson for the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) said:
“While we welcome the correction, we remain cautious about the broader intentions of the US administration. Palestinians have the right to live in their land with dignity and sovereignty.”
Israeli officials, meanwhile, maintained that any long-term peace deal must address security concerns and ensure Hamas does not regain control of Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his government remains committed to working with the US to find a “lasting and secure solution.”
Political Implications
Trump’s initial proposal had divided domestic opinion in the US as well. While hardline conservative groups had supported the idea of a Gaza takeover, more moderate voices within the Republican Party had expressed concerns over the potential for humanitarian fallout and escalating conflict.
Democratic leaders have criticized Trump’s policy shifts, accusing him of lacking a coherent Middle East strategy. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer remarked:
“This administration’s back-and-forth approach to Gaza has undermined US credibility and created unnecessary instability.”
Trump’s latest clarification is being interpreted as an effort to control political damage ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, where foreign policy is expected to play a significant role.
Conclusion
President Trump’s assertion that “nobody is expelling any Palestinians” marks a notable shift in US policy on Gaza. While the statement has calmed immediate tensions, it remains unclear how the US administration plans to navigate the complex political and humanitarian challenges in the region. For now, the focus will likely shift toward renewed diplomatic efforts and peace negotiations involving Palestinian and Israeli leadership.
