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Trump and Netanyahu Held Joint Press Conference: "USA will own the Gaza Strip"

Key Statements and Diplomatic Insights from the U.S.-Israel Historic Leadership Meeting

"Gaza will be owned by the USA... and it will become the riviera of the Middle East".

Tonight’s highly anticipated press conference began with President Trump acknowledging the extensive media presence and congratulating Prime Minister Netanyahu on bringing them together. Welcoming Netanyahu back, Trump praised their excellent discussions and expressed his appreciation to the Israeli leader and his team. He noted that Netanyahu was the first world leader to visit since his return, warmly stating, “Bibi, it’s good that you’re here.”

Trump emphasized that the U.S.-Israel alliance had been tested repeatedly in recent years, yet the bond between the American and Israeli people remains unbreakable. He assured that under his leadership, the alliance would be stronger than ever and highlighted the many achievements the two nations had shared—though, he remarked, not in the past four years.

The president proudly stated that his administration had brought peace and stability to the Middle East in ways unseen for decades. He cited key accomplishments, including the withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, the defeat of ISIS, cutting off Hamas’s funding, weakening Iran’s influence, targeting its financial resources, recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, relocating the U.S. embassy, and, of course, brokering the Abraham Accords.

He sharply criticized the Biden administration’s weakness, arguing that its failures had caused significant global damage, particularly in the Middle East. Trump asserted that the atrocities of October 7 would never have happened under his presidency.

Commending Israel’s resilience despite facing attacks from all directions, Trump praised the courage and unity of the Israeli people in standing against their "cruel and murderous enemies." He directly addressed the people of Israel, acknowledging their strength and perseverance.

Trump revealed that he and Netanyahu had discussed strategies for eliminating Hamas and restoring stability to the region.

A Bold Vision for Gaza

Regarding Gaza, Trump described it as a "symbol of death and destruction for decades" and argued that it should not be rebuilt. Instead, he suggested that nations concerned with humanitarian efforts should establish special zones to accommodate the 1.8 million Palestinians currently residing there. According to Trump, these individuals could then live in peace and security under a new, well-planned initiative, which he called “spectacular.”

Trump also referred to Gaza as a “demolition site” and proposed a bold vision: the United States could take ownership of the territory and transform it into a thriving, prosperous region. He added that Gaza could become "the Riviera of the Middle East" and expressed confidence that Egypt and Jordan would open their hearts and provide land for the displaced population.

Netanyahu: A Historic Moment

Following Trump’s remarks, Prime Minister Netanyahu took the podium, calling the invitation a testament to Trump’s unwavering support for Israel and the Jewish people. He declared:

“You are the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House, and that is why Israelis respect you.”

Netanyahu highlighted Trump’s decisive actions in support of Israel, emphasizing how he had lifted sanctions, expedited weapons shipments, fought antisemitism, and cut funding to pro-terror organizations like UNRWA. He also credited Trump for reviving a strong stance against Iran—all within just two weeks of returning to office.

The Israeli Prime Minister outlined Israel’s objectives in Gaza:

Netanyahu expressed deep gratitude for Trump's innovative thinking, stating that "fresh ideas and out-of-the-box leadership" would help achieve these goals.

He praised Trump’s courage in recognizing truths that others refuse to acknowledge, saying, “At first, people scratch their heads, but in the end, they say: ‘He was right.’” He credited this mindset with leading to the Abraham Accords and laying the groundwork for future peace in the Middle East.

Netanyahu also reaffirmed the shared commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, stating:

“This is the same Iran that tried to kill both of us.”

A New Era for U.S.-Israel Relations

The Israeli leader concluded by expressing confidence in victory, asserting that this would be an American victory as well. He envisioned a bright future for the region and an unprecedented strengthening of the U.S.-Israel alliance under Trump’s leadership.

Q&A Session Highlights

During the Q&A session, Trump stated that everyone supports America maintaining control of the area, as it would create thousands of jobs and bring great hope to the region. He reiterated that he had studied the issue thoroughly and believed the security situation there would only deteriorate without firm action. He also mentioned that his proposal had received high praise from many sources.

Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, stating that the move could change history and have a profoundly positive impact.

Trump also announced that he would be considering a statement regarding Israeli sovereignty over Judea and Samaria within the next four weeks.

Lastly, Trump reiterated his firm stance on Iran, repeatedly emphasizing that it would never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons. He also told reporters that he would love to visit Israel, Gaza, and Saudi Arabia in the near future.

Historic meeting between Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump
Photo: Avi Ohayon/ Government Press Office

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