US President Donald Trump’s proposal for a US takeover of Gaza sparked widespread anger and rejection from regional allies, while delighting Israel’s far-right circles. The plan, which includes resettling Palestinian residents elsewhere, was met with warnings against “ethnic cleansing” from the head of the UN.
Trump’s announcement was followed by criticism from Germany, Brazil, China, and other countries, with leaders expressing concerns that the plan violates international law. However, Netanyahu welcomed the proposal as a path to fulfilling Israel’s long-held goal of taking Gaza out of Palestinian control.
The US president anticipated and shrugged off refusals from key allies, including Egypt and Jordan, which have previously warned against any attempts to transfer people out of Gaza under duress. The plan has sparked fears that it could threaten talks on a ceasefire deal in Gaza and destabilize the region.
Netanyahu’s government has welcomed the proposal, with finance minister Bezalel Smotrich describing it as “vindication” of his decision to stay in Netanyahu’s government. However, critics from Israel’s leftwing parties have opposed Trump’s plans, warning that they are a nightmare for Israel and will not bring security.
The UN secretary general has urged caution and restraint, emphasizing the need to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing. As negotiations for a second stage of the ceasefire deal in Gaza continue, the international community remains divided on the future of the region.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/05/un-chief-warns-against-ethnic-cleansing-after-donald-trump-gaza-proposal