President Donald Trump, known for his ‘America First’ stance, has surprised many with his recent shift towards a more interventionist foreign policy. Proposing ambitious plans like taking over and reconstructing Gaza, reclaiming U.S. control of the Panama Canal, and even considering buying Greenland, Trump’s rhetoric has left allies and observers bewildered. The idea of relocating 1.8 million Palestinians from Gaza to create the “Riviera of the Middle East” with long-term American ownership has sparked questions about the motives behind Trump’s imperialist talk. Some speculate if this is a strategic move to bolster Netanyahu’s position or a manifestation of Trump’s real estate developer mindset.

In response to concerns, Trump’s advisers have attempted to assuage fears, emphasizing that the Gaza proposal is a generous offer aimed at rebuilding the region. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the plan as a humanitarian effort akin to a natural disaster response, doubts remain about its feasibility and financial implications. Democratic critics have condemned the Gaza proposal as offensive and risky, especially as Trump seeks to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development, which provides essential aid globally.

Despite Trump’s assertion of broad support for his Gaza plan, it has faced strong opposition from Mideast allies and European leaders who view the displacement of Palestinians as destabilizing and against international law. Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, suggests a different approach focusing on defeating Hamas and facilitating Arab control in Gaza and the West Bank. As debates continue over Trump’s unconventional foreign policy moves, the world grapples with the implications of his ambitious and controversial proposals.