Moscow rejects Trump’s Gaza plan
Russia has rejected US President Donald Trump’s plan to “take over Gaza.” A two-state solution is the only way to settle the Middle East conflict, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has reiterated.
Speaking on Tuesday following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump reiterated his view that the two million Palestinians who live in Gaza should be permanently resettled to countries such as Egypt and Jordan. The US would “take over” the territory and lead efforts to clear the destruction left by 15 months of war between Israel and Hamas, he added.
According to the UN, approximately 92% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed or severely damaged.
Moscow's position is that the only way to resolve the Middle East conflict is to create a Palestinian state to exist side-by-side with Israel, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated during a press briefing on Wednesday.
”This is the thesis that is enshrined in the relevant UN Security Council resolution, this is the thesis that is shared by the overwhelming majority of countries involved in this problem. We proceed from it, we support it and believe that this is the only possible option,” he told reporters.
Trump's resettlement idea has also been rejected by major Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, noted Peskov. Moscow holds the same position, he added.
Asked to clarify what exactly he meant by a “takeover,” the Trump said he envisions a “long-term ownership position” that would supposedly bring “great stability” to the entire Middle East.
Netanyahu praised Trump’s plan, saying that it “could change history.”
The proposal has faced significant international criticism. Palestinian authorities have denounced the plan, asserting that it violates international law. Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, as well as Türkiye, Germany, and China, have also condemned it.
Russia has consistently called for de-escalation of the conflict and a return to negotiations. Moscow has also engaged in diplomatic efforts, including hosting talks between Palestinian factions and advocating for international mediation.
A ceasefire, in which the US played a significant role, was established between Hamas and Israel in Gaza on January 19, after 15 months of hostilities.
Authorities in the enclave updated the death toll earlier this week to nearly 62,000, having added those who are missing and now presumed dead.
