Claim:
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that “nobody is expelling any Palestinians” from Gaza, despite previously suggesting their relocation to Arab states.
Fact:
Trump has made conflicting statements regarding the future of Palestinians in Gaza. In recent weeks, he proposed moving Gaza’s 2.1 million Palestinians to Arab nations like Egypt and Jordan. He also suggested that the U.S. could take control of the territory and transform it into a “Middle Eastern Riviera.” However, on Wednesday, he contradicted his earlier stance by asserting that “nobody is expelling any Palestinians.”
Evidence:
- Trump initially proposed relocating Palestinians during a meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah, stating they would be moved to a “beautiful location.”
- He later downplayed the idea, calling it a mere “recommendation” rather than an enforced policy.
- His administration rejected an Arab-backed reconstruction plan, citing Gaza’s uninhabitable conditions.
- Trump’s latest statement was cautiously welcomed by Hamas and acknowledged by Egypt and the Palestine Liberation Organization.
- Previously, Trump likened Gaza to a “demolition site” and suggested the U.S. could “develop it” at a slow pace.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s vision as a “revolutionary” plan.
Conclusion:
Trump’s contradictory remarks create uncertainty about his actual policy intentions. While he now denies any plan to expel Palestinians, his prior statements and policy proposals indicate otherwise.