The United States on Thursday dismissed an Egyptian-led plan for Gaza, stating it did not align with President Donald Trump’s expectations.
The US State Department clarified that the proposal failed to meet the criteria set by Trump, who has suggested the mass displacement of Palestinians from the war-torn territory.
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters, “It does not fulfill the requirements, the nature, of what President Trump was asking for. It does not meet the expectations.”
Her comments came after Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, offered a more cautious response, calling the Egyptian proposal a good-faith first step while stopping short of endorsing its specifics.
Credit: AP Photo/Evan Vucci
Trump promoted a controversial plan that involves taking control of Gaza and removing its population, a move widely condemned internationally.
In contrast, Arab leaders have proposed an alternative initiative that seeks to rebuild Gaza through a trust fund.
On Wednesday, Trump issued a stark warning to Gaza residents, stating on social media that “you are dead” unless Hamas releases hostages.
Witkoff suggested this might hint at upcoming joint action with Israel against Hamas, though he did not provide details.
“I think there’s going to be some action. It could be jointly with the Israelis,” Witkoff said, adding that Hamas would not have a role in Gaza’s future governance.