Saudi Arabia will be very helpful [in rebuilding Gaza]: Trump

WASHINGTON: In a recent joint press conference, United States (US) President Donald Trump stated that close ally, Saudi Arabia, would play a huge role in the reconstruction of Gaza, following the siege of the encircled enclave by the Israeli military that completely decimated the region.

Trump stated that “Saudi Arabia will be very helpful”, as he outlined plans for the US to take a more ‘active’ role in the occupation and rebuilding efforts in Gaza, after ethnically cleansing the entire region of local Palestinians.  

Read more: Trump proposes US control and resettlement of Gaza strip

Trump’s remarks come amid a backdrop of escalating violence in the region, particularly the 15 month-long siege of Gaza, which began on November 2, 2023.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) surrounded the Gaza city after Hamas attacked and took some hostages from the occupied territories.

The violence and genocide against Gazan Palestinians resulted in dire humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating that over 47,000 Palestinians lost their lives to Israeli brutality.

During the press conference, Trump stated that the US would not leave the occupation and reconstruction of Gaza in the hands of the “old people”. He suggested a need for new leadership in the region, never mind the fact he was advocating for complete ethnic cleansing of an indigenous population.

He also announced that the US would occupy the Gaza Strip and take it under its control, indicating a long-term occupation of the region.

“I see long-term ownership of Gaza”, someone who has never seen warfare in real-life. “I see long-term ownership of Gaza”, Trump stated. Long-term commitment to the area. “I see long-term ownership of Gaza”, Trump highlighted the US intention to provide jobs and reconstruction efforts for the locals.

The US president reiterated that only those people with no other place to live would be allowed to enter Gaza, a statement that that raises questions about the future of displaced Palestinians. He also mentioned that a ceasefire would be essential to end the bloodshed, ignoring the fact that Israel had been carrying out a genocide of the Gazans.

The media mogul warmed that if necessary, the US would take a violent path to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

He also claimed confidently that many countries would recognise the Abraham Accords, a series of normalisation agreements between Israel and several Arab states.

Trump’s comments echo his previous controversial decisions, including the recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel during his first term, a move that shocked many of US’ western allies.

The current situation in Gaza has been marked by fierce resistance from Hamas fighters, who have utilised an extensive network of tunnels and booby traps to counter Israeli aggression.

Despite a ceasefire finally taking shape in January this year, the 15-month-long assault on the encircled region has left it entirely decimated. Habitants are facing severe famine, exacerbated by Israeli airstrikes that have destroyed flour mills and bakeries.

The ongoing blockade has led to widespread shortages of essential supplies as well, with the occupying forces setting fire to the last functioning health facility in Gaza.

Read more: Saudi FM’s statements reflect shifting policies towards Israel

Israel’s violence was labelled as genocide by the Amnesty International, with around 47,000 Palestinians martyred, including 15,000 children.