Trump’s Controversial Vision for Gaza
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a radical plan for Gaza’s future, dubbed the “Gaza Riviera.” The vision includes modern infrastructure, luxury beachfront developments, and digital governance.
The blueprint, reportedly inspired by an economic plan from professor Joseph Pelzman, suggests a complete reconstruction of Gaza—but at the cost of mass Palestinian displacement. The idea has triggered outrage across the Arab world, with fears that it could amount to ethnic cleansing.
Arab Nations Push Back
Countries like Egypt and Jordan, which Trump suggested could absorb displaced Palestinians, have strongly opposed the plan. Jordan’s King Abdullah II reaffirmed his firm stance against forced displacement, while Egypt has threatened to end its peace treaty with Israel if Palestinians are pushed into the Sinai Peninsula. Saudi Arabia, which had previously been in discussions about normalizing ties with Israel, has also distanced itself, emphasizing Palestinian statehood as a precondition.
Do Arab States Have Real Leverage?
While Arab countries have several potential ways to resist the plan, their willingness to use them remains uncertain:
- Diplomatic Pressure – Arab leaders are engaging with U.S. officials beyond Trump’s inner circle, trying to mobilize Congress, the Pentagon, and European allies to block the plan.
- Economic Leverage – Gulf states hold significant financial ties to Trump-affiliated businesses, including investments through Jared Kushner’s private equity firm.
- Strategic Cooperation – Egypt could restrict U.S. access to the Suez Canal, a key global trade route, while Jordan could reconsider its defense agreements with Washington.
Arab Nations’ Alternative Plan
In response, Arab states are developing their own reconstruction proposal, expected to be discussed in an emergency Arab League meeting on February 27. The plan reportedly includes:
- A technocratic administration for Gaza, supported by Arab-trained security forces.
- No forced evacuations—Palestinians would be temporarily housed in agricultural zones while rebuilding takes place.
- A $30 billion reconstruction budget, with funding potentially sourced from international donors.
The Israeli Far-Right Factor
One of the biggest unknowns is Israel’s role. While Trump’s plan faces practical hurdles, Israeli right-wing factions have embraced it as an opportunity for Palestinian removal. If Israeli leaders pursue annexation of the West Bank alongside the Gaza Riviera plan, the entire region could face new waves of conflict and instability.
Conclusion: Will Arab States Act?
While Arab nations oppose Trump’s plan, their reluctance to confront Washington head-on may limit their effectiveness. However, growing unity among regional powers and European support for a Palestinian-led solution could ultimately derail the Gaza Riviera proposal. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether Arab diplomacy can block this controversial vision or whether Gaza’s future will be dictated by external powers.
