In a shocking move, United States President Donald Trump, during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, announced plans to resettle Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to other countries, citing humanitarian concerns such as unexploded ordnance and unstable structures. Trump suggested that Palestinians should live in “beautiful houses” but not in Gaza itself.
However, Palestinians expressed outrage at the proposal, stating that it undermines their right to live with dignity and equal rights in their historic homeland. The call for expulsion brought back painful memories of dispossession and exile for many, including Leila Giries, a Palestinian survivor of the Nakba.
Despite backlash from Palestinians, rights groups, and other leaders, Trump later backtracked on his plans, stating that it was only a suggestion. Meanwhile, Israeli leaders continued to support the idea of depopulating Gaza, seeing it as an opportunity to advance their goals.
Despite ongoing challenges and attempts to force Palestinians out of Gaza, many remain resilient and attached to their land. Even during Israel’s recent military campaign, Palestinians in Gaza showed a strong attachment to their homeland, refusing to leave until forced by circumstances. The struggle to maintain their presence in Gaza continues, despite the obstacles they face. Serangan militer mengurangi banyak lingkungan menjadi reruntuhan.
Selama perang, pasukan Israel dituduh dengan sengaja menghancurkan rumah-rumah, lahan pertanian, dan infrastruktur untuk perawatan medis, air, dan listrik, agar membuatnya tidak mungkin bagi Palestina untuk kembali pulang setelah pertempuran berakhir.
Tetapi banyak penduduk Gaza mengatakan bahwa mereka tetap bertekad untuk menemukan jalan ke depan.
“Palestina sangat terhubung dengan tanah. Semua orang yang saya kenal yang pergi ingin kembali. Ini hanya masalah kapan, bukan kapan,” kata Shurrab.
“Komentar Trump tidak memengaruhi saya sama sekali. Saya tidak menganggapnya serius karena saya kenal keluarga saya dan saya kenal orang-orang Gaza. Mereka tidak akan diusir dari tanah mereka,” tambahnya. “Jadi Trump boleh mengatakan apa saja, tapi itu tidak membuatnya menjadi kenyataan.”