Trump’s Strategy for Gaza: Readers Share Their Perspectives
The Topic: President Trump suggesting the U.S. should turn Gaza into a “Middle East Riviera.”
President Trump’s idea to take control of Gaza and relocate its residents to Egypt and Jordan is not feasible (“ ‘We’ll take over Gaza,’ ” Feb. 5).
Not only is this plan dismissed by Gazans, but maintaining security in the area would necessitate U.S. forces engaging in combat with Hamas operatives in Gaza’s complex network of tunnels.
Our priority should be securing the release of Israeli hostages — including six dual American-Israeli citizens — ensuring Hamas has no future influence in postwar Gaza, and curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Furthermore, we must call on the global community to categorically condemn the violence, including murder, rape, kidnapping, and atrocious acts perpetrated against Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and cease the condemnation of Israel for its right to defend itself.
Rather than weakening Hamas, Trump’s proposal could inadvertently unite the people of Gaza in support of the militant group.
Stephen A. Silver
With just four words, “We’ll take over Gaza,” Trump has contributed to global stability, deflating the risk of World War III.
His striking remark has shifted the narrative of the Israel-Gaza conflict from devastation to rejuvenation.
Of course, detailed planning is essential — but Trump showcases how his bold, decisive leadership can chart a path towards peace.
Carole Campolo
East Hampton
The president’s strategy involves displacing Gaza’s residents, who find themselves in this situation due solely to Hamas.
The implications of the events from Oct. 7 are still unfolding.
Most importantly, Hamas must be prevented from re-establishing itself and preparing for another assault on Israel.
Samuel Frazer
Fort Myers, Fla.
While President Trump excels in matters of construction, the political landscape for rebuilding Gaza post-Hamas is nuanced and complicated.
Any reconstruction efforts must take into account the Israeli citizens forcibly removed from Gaza by their own government in 2005, allowing only those Gazans who commit to peaceful coexistence with Israel the right to return.
Ron Wasserman
Freehold, NJ
Transferring Gazans to a nearby nation is a viable strategy.
Once the rebuilding is complete, those who wish to return could be allowed back.
Richard A. Ketay
Newark, NJ
While I largely support President Trump’s fresh initiatives, I worry his plan to take over Gaza is overly ambitious.
What are we to do with the 2 million residents of Gaza?
Neither Jordan nor Egypt seems willing to accept them, and no other country appears eager to step in.
What if some refuse to leave?
Is it now our duty to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction?
How will we safeguard civilian contractors tasked with clearing the devastation?
These individuals could become targets for terrorism.
Will our military need to provide them with protection?
Kenneth Fitzgerald
Hicksville
Trump’s remarks regarding Gaza should not be taken at face value.
This is yet another tactical maneuver by Trump to place Middle Eastern leaders in a defensive position.
Let’s be honest: there is a dire humanitarian crisis, yet neighboring countries are not actively welcoming Gazans.
At the same time, Gaza is left in devastation.
By proposing the implausible, Trump aims to stimulate discussions among key players for viable solutions — as evidenced by Benjamin Netanyahu’s response.
Trump has made it clear that reconstruction cannot occur simply through monetary aid.
This tactic has proven ineffective in the past, resulting merely in wasted funds without tangible progress for Gazans.
These are initial conversations, but Trump possesses a talent for setting the diplomatic wheels in motion.
And we must remember: Hamas continues to be the greatest hurdle.
Ronald G. Frank
West Orange, NJ
If all politics is local, why is there so much dialogue surrounding the U.S. taking control of Gaza?
What happened to the concept of “America First?”
Denny Freidenrich
Laguna Beach, Calif
Would you like to share your thoughts on today’s topics? Send your comments (along with your full name and city of residence) to letters@nypost.com. Letters may be edited for clarity, length, accuracy, and style.