Trump "does not rule out" using U.S. troops to seize the Gaza Strip.

US President Donald Trump stated that the United States would "take over" the Gaza Strip, possibly with the help of American troops.

"The United States will own it (the strip) and will be responsible for dismantling all dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on-site, leveling the area, and removing the destroyed buildings," Trump said during a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Trump has repeatedly promised to "end the war" that Russia is waging against Ukraine and previously claimed that the US "did not see wars" during his first presidential term, assuring that the States would not partake in wars during his second term either.

Now, he mentioned during the press conference that he would consider sending American troops to the region "if necessary."

According to him, the presence of the US in the Gaza Strip would lead to economic development, the creation of "an endless number of jobs," and new housing for people in the region.

"If needed, we will do it. We are going to take over this part and develop it," the head of the White House stated.

In his view, the war-torn region, home to over 2 million people, could eventually transform into the "Riviera of the Middle East," where not only Palestinians but also "people from all over the world" could settle.

"It will be just wonderful," Trump noted.

He added that his plan could bring "great peace" to the entire Middle Eastern region, and the US would ensure that "everything is done on a global level."

Previously, Trump suggested relocating Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip to Egypt and Jordan. He pointed out that the region has turned into a "demolition site" and has become a very dangerous place to live.

According to Trump, residents remain in Gaza only because "they have no alternatives."

However, Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and the Palestinian Authority, rejected "any plans to relocate Palestinians from their territories in Gaza and the occupied West Bank."

The idea was also criticized by the Hamas movement, which controls Gaza, warning that it would lead to "a path of chaos."

The president added that neighboring countries Egypt and Jordan should play a role in accepting Palestinians.

Both countries have stated that they do not wish to accept refugees.

Netanyahu, for his part, stated that one of Israel's main objectives is to ensure that the Gaza Strip never poses a threat to the country again. "But President Trump is raising this issue to a completely new level. He sees a different future for this piece of land, which has long been a source of terrorism and numerous attacks against us," the Israeli Prime Minister said. He added that Trump's approach could "change the course of history," and thus "it is worth seriously considering this path."

Trump's comments came after Israel and Palestine agreed to a ceasefire, during which negotiations for a prisoner exchange are ongoing.

On January 19, the agreement came into effect. One of its provisions includes the reconstruction of Gaza within 3-5 years. However, senior officials in the Trump administration had previously indicated that reconstruction would take much longer, potentially 10-15 years.