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President Donald Trump has been floating a dangerous proposal for my homeland: On a number of recent occasions, he has suggested moving the civilian population out of Gaza, implying the forced relocation or displacement of hundreds of thousands of innocent people, possibly even the entire population of the embattled Gaza Strip. When asked if they would ever return, he said no, suggesting they wouldn't want to.
This rhetoric is not just inflammatory; it is a direct endorsement of ethnic cleansing and a violation of international law. Implementing Trump's proposal would result in unimaginable suffering, exacerbate instability in the region, and create a dangerous precedent for conflicts around the globe. His remarks suggest a troubling vision for the future, where the entire population of Gaza—exceeding two million individuals—is viewed not as human beings with rights, histories, and dreams, but as mere obstacles to be eliminated.
None of this is to deny that the main catalyst behind the ongoing crisis is Hamas. For years, Hamas has wielded a ruthless grip over the Gaza Strip, stifling political dissent and silencing anyone who dared to advocate for alternative leadership. The war, sparked by Hamas' invasion of Israel, tragically claimed the lives of more than 1,200 Israelis, predominantly civilians, and led to the abduction of over 200 people. In Gaza, the repercussions of Hamas' assault have been catastrophic for the civilian population, leading to tens of thousands of casualties, countless injuries, and widespread destruction.
Here's the truth: Trump's proposals for displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians are indeed unacceptable. Yet the current situation of Hamas governing 2 million individuals, oppressing and shooting them over trivial matters, is equally intolerable.
By refusing to disarm or permit alternative governance, Hamas has condemned innocent civilians to endure relentless turmoil. The choices they have made—initiating attacks on Israel with full awareness of the unavoidable repercussions, stockpiling resources intended for civilians, and placing military goals above the well-being of their own population—have severely intensified the suffering in Gaza. Although Israel's actions have played a significant role in the ongoing crisis, it is imperative to hold Hamas responsible for obstructing any potential route toward peace and stability.
Meanwhile, Trump's proposal has faced widespread criticism, drawing condemnation not only from regional powers such as Egypt and Jordan but also from Gulf states and European nations. Indeed, Trump's inflammatory rhetoric has inadvertently unified the Arab world in opposition to his plan. His calls for expulsion have united Arab states, which typically have differing perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, in an unusual moment of agreement against any forced displacement of Palestinians.
More importantly, Trump's reckless remarks may endanger the anticipated Saudi-Israel normalization agreement. Saudi Arabia has firmly stated that any diplomatic engagement with Israel must incorporate meaningful actions to address the Palestinian issue, yet Trump's proposal jeopardizes these vital efforts. His perspective highlights a significant misunderstanding of Middle Eastern geopolitics—that U.S. aid supersedes security concerns for nations such as Egypt and Jordan. The reaction to Trump underscores the delicate balance required to promote peace and mitigate violence in the region. Instead of fostering stability, his words risk undoing years of diplomatic progress and alienating key U.S. allies in the region.
Of course, Trump's remarks can be interpreted as a calculated provocation intended to rouse Arab nations from lethargy. By advocating for such harsh action, Trump is urging Arab nations to have a more proactive stance in addressing the Gaza question, rather than just using the Palestinian cause for political leverage. Since the 1967 loss of the Arab army, Arab governments have articulated rhetorical support for Palestine while concurrently using the situation to garner political backing or rationalize inactivity. If this was Trump's intention, he could be compelling Arab leaders to either present tangible solutions for Gaza's future or reveal their persistent tendency to exploit the Palestinian issue for their own gain.
It's hard to imagine his jarring talk of mass deportation will get him far. Any substantive plan for Gaza should concentrate on rehabilitation, governance, and a sustainable political resolution that respects the rights of the Palestinians. This includes ensuring security for Israelis, making sure that Gaza doesn't pose a threat to any nation, while granting Palestinians in Gaza the dignity and opportunity to construct their future in their homeland—rather than in exile.
Arab states, including the Palestinian Authority, must not only reject Trump's imprudent proposals but also capitalize on this opportunity to offer a credible alternative to the U.S. government. A diplomatic effort led by the Arab world could counter Trump's dangerous rhetoric with a real pathway to peace—one that protects Palestinian rights while addressing legitimate Israeli security concerns.
The Palestinian people need a future built on security, justice, and coexistence—not expulsion and perpetual exile. Arab leaders have a responsibility to rise to the occasion and push for a sustainable solution that benefits Palestinians, stabilizes the region, and moves toward a just resolution to this decades-long conflict.
Hamza Howidy is a Palestinian from Gaza City. He is an accountant and a peace advocate.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
