Media: Trump’s inner circle discussed Gaza takeover just before Netanyahu talks

Two officials from the Trump administration disclosed that a proposal to take control of Gaza was floated in the days leading up to a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The idea was reportedly discussed privately within President Trump's inner circle, with few others aware of the plan during the initial stages of planning.

The proposal has raised eyebrows, with some of Trump’s staunchest supporters within the Jewish community expressing astonishment, Caliber.Az reports, citing WSJ.

A prominent pro-Israel fundraiser, who has backed Trump for years, described the notion as “insane” and questioned the logistics, noting the significant time and challenges involved in executing such a policy.

Netanyahu, in a press conference following the meeting, acknowledged Trump’s ambition to address the security concerns surrounding Gaza. "One of my key goals was to ensure Gaza wouldn’t host terrorists again," he said, adding that Trump had taken this vision “to a much higher level.” He continued, "It is something that could change history, and it is worthwhile really pursuing this avenue.”

While Trump's foreign policy remains rooted in an “America First” approach, focusing on strengthening domestic manufacturing and imposing tariffs, his Gaza proposal represents a dramatic shift. Despite pushing to reduce US foreign aid and gutting the US Agency for International Development, the plan highlights Trump’s assertive stance as he enters a second term in office.

This bold move comes as Trump pursues an array of controversial international goals, including acquiring Greenland, challenging control over the Panama Canal, and suggesting Canada should become the 51st US state. An adviser to the president remarked, “While some observers have dismissed his desire to take control of Greenland, the Panama Canal and other places, he’s deadly serious about it.”

The Gaza proposal also reflects Trump’s business background, applying a real-estate mindset to global diplomacy. His approach, which mirrors his stance on the potential ban of Chinese-owned TikTok, seeks ways to involve the US in foreign ventures, proposing a deal where the US would take an ownership stake in the social media platform.

When speaking on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Trump expressed regret over the loss of lives, particularly Russians, and the destruction of cities, lamenting the ongoing devastation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev