The United Kingdom has rejected Donald Trump's plan to turn Gaza into "the Riviera of the Middle East," arguing that Palestinians "need to be able to return to their homes."
Top members of Sir Keir Starmer's cabinet have backed a two-state solution to the conflict and said Israel should exist alongside "a free and viable Palestinian state."
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Donald Trump was right to say that Gaza is "lying in rubble" and needs to be rebuilt. However, he stressed that the UK's position remains that Palestinians should be able to return to their homes and live in a free and viable state.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed also made it clear that the UK disagrees with Trump's plan. He said that Palestinian civilians have been through a "living nightmare" and need to be able to return to their homes.
The Liberal Democrats have also criticized Trump's plan, calling it "bizarre and dangerous."
Trump on Tuesday said he wanted to create "the Riviera of the Middle East" by taking over Gaza and resettling Palestinians into "areas where the leaders currently say no."
The president outlined plans to "take over" the war-torn enclave, and did not rule out using American troops to do so.
Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump described Gaza as a "hell hole." He said that the strip has been a symbol of death and destruction for decades and that it should not be rebuilt by the same people who have lived there and died there.
Pressed on what authority would permit the United States to take over Gaza, Trump replied that he saw the United States taking "a long-term ownership position" that would bring "great stability to the Middle East" region. He also said the US could send troops to Gaza to accomplish this.
UK shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel declined to give a "running commentary on those overnight comments." But she stressed that "no one country will be able to do this on their own" regarding the reconstruction of Gaza.
11 Comments
KittyKat
Trump's plan is a distraction from the real issue – Israel's continued occupation and human rights abuses in Palestine.
BuggaBoom
Trump's leadership is what the Middle East needs to break the cycle of conflict and bring about lasting peace and prosperity.
KittyKat
It's time for a paradigm shift in Gaza. The current situation is unsustainable, and the 'Riviera' plan offers hope for a brighter future.
Loubianka
Turning Gaza into a 'Riviera' could be a game-changer, attracting tourists and investment while creating a better life for Palestinians.
KittyKat
I'd rather see Palestinians living in a modern 'Riviera' than stuck in endless conflict.
Loubianka
I agree with the UK that a two-state solution is the ideal outcome, but we need a practical solution in the meantime, and the 'Riviera' plan could be it.
Cerebro
Trump's plan may not be perfect, but it's a step in the right direction. Palestinians deserve better than what they've had.
Karamba
It's time to stop dwelling on the past and look towards the future. The 'Riviera' plan is a chance for both Palestinians and Israelis to move forward.
Loubianka
I applaud Trump for thinking outside the box and coming up with a solution that could truly benefit everyone involved.
Eugene Alta
This plan isn't about taking anything away from Palestinians; it's about giving them a better future. They deserve a chance to thrive.
Barachiel
It's time to stop the negativity and embrace new possibilities. The 'Riviera' plan is a bold step towards a more peaceful and prosperous Middle East.