Western allies slam Trump's plan to '"take over" Gaza

On the international front.

Washington's allies and adversaries alike have voiced their firm opposition to the idea of the U.S. taking over the Gaza Strip.

Lee Seung-jae covers the condemnation.

During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump proposed that the U.S. "take over" the Gaza Strip and resettle the Palestinian population.

His plans to turn the area into the "Riviera of the Middle East" were heavily criticized by Western allies on Wednesday.

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed its opposition to "any forced displacement" of Gazans, adding that Paris will continue to push for the implementation of a two-state solution.

Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said while Italy will look into Trump's plans,.. it still remains in favor of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

German President Walter Steinmeier slammed the plan, calling it unacceptable, adding that such actions will form a serious basis "for the upcoming talks between the regional actors and the U.S. administration."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also criticized the proposal, calling the relocation of Gazans,.. a form of "ethnic cleansing."

"In the search for solutions, we must not make the problem worse. It is vital to stay true to the bedrock of international law. It is essential to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing."

The paramilitary Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, denounced what it called "racist comments" by the U.S. leader and vowed to fight his plans in Gaza.

In a statement on Wednesday, the group said that Israel's attempt to force Palestinians to leave Gaza failed, and that Trump's proposal will also fail.

Despite the international condemnation, President Trump said Wednesday at the White House, that "everybody loves" his proposal for a U.S. takeover of Gaza.

Trump's officials were quick to clear up what they believe were misunderstandings, as U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio said that Trump's plan was a unique offer to step in and clear debris and destruction in Gaza.

He added that the move to relocate the Gazans was not meant as a hostile move and that details still needed to be worked out.

With Trump also considering U.S. troop deployment to the Gaza Strip, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said Trump is "willing to think outside the box, look for new and unique, dynamic ways to solve problems," adding that the Pentagon is prepared to look at all options.

Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.