A New Middle East: Hope Or Illusion?
Does Trump's Proposal Make Any Sense?
President Trump’s proposal to relocate Gaza’s population and redevelop the region shocked many. Let’s unpack what this means.
First, Zionism is about self-determination for all peoples, not just Jews. Forcing an entire population from its land disturbs us and undermines our core values.
War has ravaged Gaza, but its people still have the right to stay. Ethnic cleansing cannot be a solution.
But maybe there’s more to it. Trump frequently adopts extreme stances as a negotiation tactic.
This proposal may be less about actual relocation and more about applying pressure on Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Palestinian leaders to shift the dynamics of the region.
Viewed charitably, Trump’s proposal is reckless and unrealistic, but it exposes some uncomfortable truths. What are they?
Uncomfortable Truths
The conflict persists because two peoples claim the same land. Israel has repeatedly offered compromises.
Palestinian leadership, however, refuses to accept anything short of total sovereignty. And what has been the result?
First, Gaza has squandered its potential. Billions meant for infrastructure have fueled terror instead. If its leaders prioritized building instead of destruction, Gaza could thrive.
Second, the current situation is utterly unsustainable. October 7th changed Israelis, and the old approach, represented by the Oslo Accords, feels stale and unrealistic.
Hamas exists to destroy Israel. Without its severe weakening, the cycle of violence continues and peace remains impossible.
Avoiding Responsibility
Third, Jordan and Egypt have long avoided responsibility. They controlled Palestinian territories before 1967 but never created a state.
And Egypt still blocks Gazans from entry. These nations cannot continue deflecting blame onto Israel.
Fourth, the Palestinian refugee status is an anomaly. Refugees usually resettle, yet Palestinians retain the label across generations. Will that persist indefinitely?
These are all real truths and questions overlooked in simple slogans and analysis. Acknowledging them is an important step to change.
Next Steps
I am still deeply troubled by Trump's plans. Zionism means defending all peoples’ rights, even those who oppose us.
At its best, this proposal shakes loose a decades-old stalemate. We can reject forced relocation while seeking new solutions.
I welcome your thoughts and insights.
There needs to be at least a temporary resettlement of the people of Gaza so that the Israelis, the U.S. military, and international forces could go in remove any land mines and then concrete that network of underground bunkers and tunnels. Palestinians cannot be allowed to continue to operate those things. Then rebuilding could begin. If the Palestinians refuse to live in a peaceful offered two state self governing situation then they need to be expelled.
Unfortunately due to decisions made in the past we have this, so they, the Palestinians, should resolve to accept what is and apply themselves towards creating a new and prosperous nation, but for the peace of the entire region, the world, both Israelis and Palestinians, this constant looking back and wanting to battle over that desert has to stop. I post this as the descendant of the formerly enslaved in the USA. We need to resolve our differences in the USA.
Zionism literally translates to a belief that the Jews are indigenous to Eretz Yisrael and deserve full sovereignty in their ancestral lands. It does NOT mean for everyone. Please stop “All lives matter”ing the Jewish people. Jewish Lives Matter. It’s time to get rid of anyone who wants to kill Jews from Israel’s borders. And yes, it is time to stop the farcical concept that *only* the Palestinians get to be refugees generations and generations after the initial war that made them refugees. UNWRA took part in Oct 7, civilians in Gaza took part in the murdering and kidnapping and holding Jews in their homes (not to mention UN facilities!) so no- they do not deserve another chance to arm-up and kill more Jews. NO, No, NO!!!!