French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced strong opposition to President Donald Trump’s proposal for the Gaza Strip, calling it an unsuitable solution to the ongoing conflict in the region. Macron, during a CNN interview, criticized the idea of displacing Palestinians from Gaza, emphasizing that it was more than a “real estate operation,” as Trump framed it. Macron believes that any solution to the crisis must be rooted in a political approach, not one driven by property deals or forced relocation.
Trump’s controversial proposal suggests that the U.S. take control of Gaza, rebuild its infrastructure, and temporarily relocate its Palestinian residents. The proposal has sparked criticism from multiple quarters, including Arab leaders and even some Republicans. Despite these concerns, Trump stood by his plan, asserting that Palestinians do not want to live in Gaza and that no U.S. troops would be involved. His discussions with Jordan’s King Abdullah II only deepened the divide, with Abdullah rejecting the notion of Palestinian displacement, stating that Arab nations would present their own proposal to address the crisis.
Macron, though critical of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, has also affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself, especially after the horrific Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023. Last year, he took steps to pause arms deliveries to Israel intended for use in Gaza. Despite his concerns over Israel’s actions, Macron made clear that a solution should prioritize peace and humanitarian considerations, not large-scale military operations or forced population transfers.
Jordan’s King Abdullah echoed similar sentiments, firmly rejecting the forced displacement of Palestinians, a stance that reflects the broader Arab consensus. He also acknowledged Trump’s role in brokering the ceasefire in Gaza, yet insisted that the rebuilding efforts must center on improving the humanitarian situation without displacing Palestinians. His remarks highlight the complex dynamics at play in the region and the ongoing debate over the best path forward.