Trump's Gaza Plan Faces Rejection Amid Direct Talks with Hamas

The Trump administration has reaffirmed its controversial vision for Gaza, proposing a transformation of the territory into a US-owned 'Gaza Riviera' aimed at expelling Palestinian residents, in stark contrast to a $53 billion reconstruction plan proposed by Arab nations that seeks to allow Palestinians to remain. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes emphasized Trump's commitment to rebuilding Gaza free from Hamas but rejected the Arab plan. Meanwhile, the US has shifted its longstanding policy by engaging directly with Hamas amidst ongoing violence in the region, where Israeli forces have intensified actions in the occupied West Bank. Trump issued a stark warning to Hamas, indicating severe consequences if hostages are not released, while Arab leaders expressed relief that he did not focus on his Gaza takeover plan in a recent speech. The Arab proposal for Gaza governance suggests an interim Palestinian Authority leadership but lacks clarity on disarming Hamas. With the situation in Gaza deteriorating, the US's withdrawal from the Arab plan leaves regional leaders to navigate a complex path forward.