Trump Declines to Impose Gaza Reconstruction Plan, Surprised by Egypt and Jordan’s Rejection

Washington, D.C. – February 21, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that his plan for rebuilding Gaza is “highly successful,” but he will not impose it, opting instead to offer it as a recommendation. Speaking during an interview with Fox News Radio, Trump expressed surprise at the rejection of his proposal by Egypt and Jordan, despite the substantial U.S. financial aid provided to both nations annually.

Key Highlights of Trump’s Plan

Trump described his Gaza reconstruction strategy as a comprehensive initiative aimed at developing and fully rebuilding the war-torn enclave, explicitly excluding any role for Hamas. “There won’t be Hamas. Gaza will be developed, and we’ll start fresh with a clean slate,” he said. He emphasized that residents of Gaza might prefer living in a stable, modern environment, stating, “If Gaza’s residents were given the choice between this option and living in a beautiful community, I think I know which they’d pick.”

However, Trump clarified that he would not force the plan on the region, saying, “The plan is really successful, but I won’t impose it. I’ll sit down and recommend it, and then the United States will be responsible for the site.” He also acknowledged an alternative approach—rebuilding Gaza while keeping residents in place—but dismissed it as ineffective, noting, “I don’t think that will work. Decades of killing have occurred in that place; it’s one of the most dangerous spots in the world.”

Surprise Over Egypt and Jordan’s Rejection

Trump voiced astonishment at the rejection of his plan by Egypt and Jordan, countries that receive billions of dollars in annual U.S. aid. “We pay billions of dollars every year to Jordan and Egypt. I was a little surprised they did that,” he remarked, without elaborating on the specific reasons for their opposition. The rejection likely stems from concerns that Trump’s plan may prioritize Israeli or U.S. involvement in Gaza, potentially undermining Palestinian sovereignty—a position Egypt and Jordan, staunch supporters of Palestinian rights, are unlikely to endorse.

Arab Response and Counter-Plan

The rejection aligns with a broader Arab stance, as Egypt, Jordan, and Gulf states recently held a mini-summit in Riyadh to discuss Gaza’s future and coordinate a unified response to international proposals. Reports indicate that Egypt is developing a counter-plan for Gaza’s reconstruction, which may emphasize Palestinian self-governance and a greater Arab role, contrasting sharply with Trump’s vision. This move reflects growing regional opposition to external impositions on Gaza’s post-conflict trajectory.

Controversial Remarks on Israel’s Gaza Withdrawal

In a surprising tangent, Trump criticized Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza, calling it “one of the worst real estate deals” he had ever seen. He drew a parallel to the U.S. decision to cede control of the Panama Canal, asking, “I don’t understand why Israel gave up Gaza. Why did they do that? I think they look at us and say, ‘Why did you give up the Panama Canal?’” This remark suggests Trump’s belief that a stronger Israeli or external presence might have prevented Gaza’s current instability, further highlighting the geopolitical tensions surrounding his plan.

Timeline of Events

Implications for Gaza’s Future

Trump’s refusal to impose his plan, combined with Egypt and Jordan’s opposition, underscores the complex dynamics of Gaza’s reconstruction. His vision, which excludes Hamas and emphasizes U.S. or Israeli involvement, clashes with Arab priorities of Palestinian self-determination and regional leadership. Meanwhile, Egypt’s counter-plan could reshape international efforts, potentially fostering a more inclusive approach but risking further division among stakeholders.