Trump wants US to own Gaza, could let Middle East states help rebuild

10/2/2025 11:25

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he is committed to buying and owning Gaza, but could allow sections of the land to be rebuilt by other states in the Middle East.



"I'm committed to buying and owning Gaza. As far as us rebuilding it, we may give it to other states in the Middle East to build sections of it, other people may do it, through our auspices. But we're committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn't move back."



Trump made his remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One on his way to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl.



He said, "There's nothing to move back into. The place is a demolition site. The remainder will be demolished. Everything's demolished."



Trump also said that he was open to the possibility of allowing some Palestinian refugees into the United States, but would consider such requests on a case-by-case basis.



Shortly after being sworn-in for a second presidential term on January 20, Trump floated the idea of the United States taking over Gaza and engaging in a massive rebuilding effort.



His statement was vague on the future of Palestinians who had endured over a year of bombardment by Israel in response to an October 2023 attack by Hamas.



It was unclear under what authority the United States would take claim of Gaza. Trump's announcement drew immediate rebukes from several nations.