Sen. Mullin backs Trump’s Gaza plan as ceasefire remains fragile

U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin, (R-Okla.), is supporting President Donald Trump’s plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza and redevelop the war-torn region into a high-end tourist destination, despite global criticism. The proposal comes as a fragile ceasefire in Gaza remains at risk of collapsing.

Trump met Tuesday with Jordan’s King Abdullah, a key regional leader whose cooperation would be essential. The meeting followed Trump’s earlier suggestion that U.S. aid could be withheld to pressure Jordan and Egypt into accepting displaced Palestinians, a statement he later walked back. Abdullah, who initially rejected the proposal, indicated a willingness to discuss regional solutions.

A key question remains the fate of nearly 2 million Palestinians in Gaza. Trump has dismissed the possibility of allowing them to return, saying rebuilding must come first.

Mullin said the widespread destruction in Gaza makes relocation necessary. "With all the unexploded ordnance and miles of tunnels, rebuilding will take years," he said. "By the fact that we’re willing to take charge of Gaza, that allows the resettlement of these Palestinians to maybe be shared throughout the region."

Mullin also backed Trump’s warning to Hamas, echoed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that the ceasefire could end if all hostages are not released by Saturday. He criticized Hamas for failing to meet previous commitments on hostage releases.