Hamas, Saudi Arabia, and Australia slam Trump’s Gaza takeover plan

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced strong support for a two-state solution in the Middle East on Wednesday, following US President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks. During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump unveiled plans for the United States to take control of the Gaza Strip.

Trump suggested that the US would “own” Gaza and take responsibility for dismantling any unexploded bombs and weapons in the region. Netanyahu welcomed Trump’s stance, expressing his support for the idea of long-term US ownership, which he argued could “change history.”

However, Hamas quickly rejected Trump’s proposal. In a statement, the Gaza-based militant group called it a “recipe for creating chaos” in the Middle East. “Our people in the Gaza Strip will not allow these plans to pass,” the group stated. The tensions between Israel and Hamas have been escalating, especially after Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel in October 2023, sparking the ongoing conflict.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which began on January 19, aims to reduce hostilities. The first phase of the ceasefire deal is set to last until March 1. Despite this, violence remains a significant concern, with many questioning whether long-term peace is achievable.

In the broader Arab world, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution. On Tuesday, the Saudi government expressed its unwavering support for an independent Palestinian state. However, it added that the establishment of diplomatic relations with Israel would depend on the formation of a Palestinian state.

Saudi Arabia’s position highlights the deep divisions in the Middle East over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the future of Gaza. Prime Minister Albanese, in a press briefing on Wednesday, emphasized Australia’s stance on the issue. “Australia’s position is the same as it was this morning, as it was last year,” he said.

“The Australian government supports, on a bipartisan basis, a two-state solution.” This marks a continuation of Australia’s longstanding foreign policy on the Middle East.

As the international community reacts, the US plan to take control of Gaza seems to fuel further tensions. While Israel’s leaders view it as a potential step toward stability, many in the region, including Hamas, see it as an exacerbation of the conflict. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic moves continuing to unfold. The path to peace remains uncertain, and the world watches as major powers, including the US and Australia, navigate the complex and volatile situation in the Middle East.