Abbas firmly opposes Trump’s plan to relocate Palestinians and asserts that Gaza is an integral part of Palestinian territory.
In a recent press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, U.S. President Donald Trump proposed that the United States “take over” the Gaza Strip after relocating its Palestinian residents elsewhere. He suggested that this redevelopment plan could transform Gaza into “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas responded decisively, stating, “We will not allow the rights of our people, for which we have struggled for decades, to be infringed upon.” He emphasized that such proposals represent a serious violation of international law and that peace and stability in the region cannot be achieved without the establishment of a Palestinian state. Abbas reiterated that the Gaza Strip, along with the West Bank and East Jerusalem, is an integral part of Palestinian land. He declared, “The legitimate Palestinian rights are non-negotiable.”
The proposal has faced widespread international criticism. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, condemned the plan, stating that any forcible transfer or deportation of Palestinians from occupied territory would violate international law. He reaffirmed the right to self-determination as a fundamental principle that must be upheld by all states.
Hamas, the Palestinian group governing Gaza, also categorically rejected Trump’s plan, describing his remarks as “irresponsible” and “aggressive” towards the Palestinian people and their cause. They urged the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to take a firm and historic position to preserve Palestinian national rights.
Abbas called upon the United Nations Secretary-General and the Security Council to assume their responsibilities in enforcing international resolutions and protecting the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. He emphasized that no one has the right to make decisions on the future of the Palestinian people except the Palestine Liberation Organization, the official and legitimate representative body of the Palestinian people.
This development comes after a ceasefire agreement took effect in Gaza on January 19, suspending Israel’s military actions that have resulted in significant loss of life and destruction in the enclave. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with many advocating for a two-state solution as the path to lasting peace in the region.
