Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that the decision to fully occupy the Gaza Strip rests with Israel, sparking concern among international observers amid the ongoing war and deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized his primary concern was the delivery of food aid to Gaza’s population, many of whom are facing starvation. When asked about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reported intentions to reoccupy the enclave, Trump deferred, saying, “As far as the rest of it, I really can’t say. That’s going to be pretty much up to Israel.”
Concerns Over Full Occupation Mount
Trump’s comments come as the conflict in Gaza, ongoing since October 2023, has displaced millions and caused widespread devastation. UN officials have issued strong warnings against any move toward full reoccupation, citing the risk of a catastrophic humanitarian outcome.
Miroslav Jenca, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and the Americas at the United Nations, told the UN Security Council that any such occupation “would risk catastrophic consequences,” stressing that Gaza must remain part of a future Palestinian state under international law.
Longstanding Debates Over Occupation
Although Israel withdrew troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005, international experts have continued to describe the territory as being under de facto occupation, due to Israeli control over airspace, borders, and maritime access.
Since the 2023 conflict escalated, Israeli political figures, particularly from the right, have pushed for a return of settlements and permanent military control in Gaza. These proposals are widely criticized as violations of international law and have drawn concern for their implications regarding the forced displacement of Palestinian residents.
Earlier this year, Trump appeared to support some of these ideas, referencing a vision to transform Gaza into a “riviera of the Middle East”—a remark interpreted by critics as endorsing the displacement of Palestinians.
Humanitarian Emergency Deepens
More than 61,000 people have reportedly been killed in Gaza since the war began, according to health authorities, while much of the region’s infrastructure has been destroyed. Food insecurity is reaching crisis levels, with growing reports of people being killed while attempting to access humanitarian aid.
Despite ongoing U.S. military support for Israel, international aid groups face severe restrictions in delivering relief. Trump claimed that the U.S. has provided $60 million in food assistance to Gaza and praised Israel’s cooperation in distribution efforts, though on-the-ground reports indicate that access to aid remains limited and inconsistent.
As the humanitarian situation worsens, Trump’s remarks have intensified the global debate over the future of Gaza and the responsibilities of both Israel and its allies in preventing further escalation.
