He wants to make a “freedom zone.”
During a recent stop in Qatar as part of his Middle East tour, U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his ambition for the United States to play a leading role in the future of Gaza. This follows earlier statements expressing his desire to end the conflict in Gaza swiftly, signaling possible support for a ceasefire agreement that could place the Palestinian Authority in charge of the region.
Addressing the situation, Trump proposed transforming Gaza into a “freedom zone” under American oversight. “We’re working hard on Gaza. It’s been a place of destruction and tragedy for far too long,” he remarked.
Back in February, Trump pointed to the widespread damage throughout Gaza as a justification for evacuating residents and initiating major reconstruction, envisioning a future where the area becomes “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
“I’ve seen aerial images—there’s almost nothing left standing,” he noted at the time, as reported by Agence France-Presse (AFP). “People are surviving in the ruins of destroyed buildings. That’s not something we can accept.”
Trump continued, “I have ideas for Gaza that I believe are promising—create a freedom zone. Let the United States take part and transform it into something new.” He added, “I’d be proud if the U.S. were to step in, take charge, and establish it as a freedom zone.”
After unveiling this vision earlier this year, U.S. and Israeli officials sought nations that might accept displaced Gazans, but no country has agreed so far.
In recent months, Trump has spoken less frequently about this plan. Earlier this week, however, he stated that the U.S. remains committed to securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and emphasized efforts to bring the war to a close swiftly.
Reports on Wednesday suggested that the U.S. is urging Israel to consider a ceasefire agreement that would remove Hamas from authority and potentially disarm the group—though such an arrangement would fall short of Israel’s stated goal of eliminating Hamas completely.
This proposed ceasefire could undermine Trump’s original plan for Gaza. Yet his remarks in Qatar indicate he hasn’t abandoned the idea. “Hamas will need to be dealt with,” he asserted.
He also reflected on the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, describing it as “one of the darkest days in global history,” and “one of the most horrific assaults ever witnessed.”
