In a recent press conference held in Brussels, U.S. President Donald Trump outlined a contentious plan aimed at transforming the Gaza Strip into what he described as the "Riviera of the Middle East." Addressing reporters alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump asserted that the United States would "take control" of the territory, proposing to dismantle munitions and provide economic development initiatives.

The plan, however, has faced widespread criticism internationally and domestically.

Trump stated, "We will own it and be responsible for dismantling all the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons there," and mentioned intentions to create jobs and housing in the area.

He suggested that the current population of Gaza, estimated to be nearly 2 million, should relocate to neighboring countries, describing these nations as having "humanitarian hearts" and "great wealth." However, no neighboring countries, including Jordan and Egypt, have indicated willingness to accept a resettlement of Gazans.

The proposal comes as negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding the second phase of a ceasefire, aimed at the release of Israeli hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, resume.

While these negotiations are ongoing, Trump's comments have caused a stir within the region's geopolitical landscape.

Reactions to the proposal have been varied.

Hamas dismissed the plan as "ridiculous," asserting that it does not represent the interests of the Palestinian people, and reiterated the necessity of ending the occupation.

The Saudi government has also expressed firm opposition, stating that normalization with Israel is contingent upon the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and rejecting any forced displacement of Palestinians.

Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized the importance of the Palestinian population remaining in Gaza, reflecting a broader regional consensus against the proposed relocation.

Additionally, Turkey commented that the plan is "unacceptable," while both China and Russia reaffirmed support for Palestinian self-governance over Palestinian territories.

In contrast, the Israeli political establishment largely praised Trump's proposal, with Netanyahu lauding it as a potential historical shift.

He characterized Trump as "the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House," and emphasized the necessity of new ideas to address ongoing regional issues.

The proposal has also revitalized far-right factions within Israel, with figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir supporting the plan as a viable solution to the challenges facing Gaza.

Responses from European leaders have noted significant concerns.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and French officials have reiterated the necessity of Palestinians living in their homeland, thereby opposing any third-party control of Gaza.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and other European representatives affirmed that Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem belong to the Palestinians, underlining the backdrop of international law that protects Palestinian self-determination.

As the situation develops, the implications of Trump's plan could further influence the already volatile dynamics in the Middle East.