Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a joint press conference at the White House on Tuesday, where Trump proposed that the United States “take over” Gaza, while Netanyahu hailed him as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had.”
Key Takeaways from the Trump-Netanyahu Press Conference:
🔹 Trump Proposes US ‘Take Over’ Gaza
• Trump announced that the United States would “take over” and “own” the Gaza Strip to restore order and rebuild the region.
• He suggested sending US troops if necessary, stating, “We’ll do what is necessary. If it’s necessary, we’ll do that.”
• Trump mentioned plans to clear unexploded bombs, remove damaged buildings, and create jobs and housing in Gaza.
• He reiterated his controversial stance that Palestinians should relocate to Egypt and Jordan, an idea both countries have strongly rejected.
• “Gaza should not be rebuilt and occupied by the same people who have lived there in misery for decades,” he added.
🔹 Trump: ‘Gaza Could Become the Riviera of the Middle East’
• Trump expressed a long-term vision for Gaza, claiming it could become a major tourism hub.
• “This could be something magnificent—the Riviera of the Middle East,” he said, hinting at US-led redevelopment plans.
• He claimed that world leaders support the idea of US control over Gaza.
🔹 Netanyahu Praises Trump as ‘Israel’s Greatest Friend’
• Netanyahu hailed Trump’s leadership, calling him “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.”
• He described Trump’s Gaza proposal as a potential turning point in history.
• “The people of Israel respect you greatly,” Netanyahu said, reinforcing the US-Israel alliance.
🔹 Netanyahu: ‘Israel Must Finish the Job in Gaza’
• Netanyahu stated that Israel will continue military operations in Gaza until its objectives are met.
• He outlined three main goals:
• Eliminating Hamas
• Securing the release of hostages
• Ensuring Gaza no longer poses a security threat to Israel
• “Israel will end the war by winning it. Israel’s victory will be America’s victory,” Netanyahu declared.