The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has strongly opposed U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion that the United States should take control of Gaza and relocate its residents, emphasizing that such actions violate international law.
Speaking on Wednesday, Turk stated that forcibly deporting people from occupied territories is strictly prohibited under international humanitarian law. His remarks came in response to Trump’s controversial proposal, which was unveiled during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday.
Trump, who has taken credit for brokering the ceasefire deal that took effect last month, outlined a plan to “revamp” Gaza by clearing unexploded ordnance and rebuilding its economy. However, he failed to provide details on how over two million Palestinians would be relocated or who would govern the region under his plan.
In a statement, Turk stressed the urgency of upholding human rights and ensuring long-term peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
“It is crucial that we move towards the next phase of the ceasefire, to release all hostages and arbitrarily detained prisoners, end the war, and reconstruct Gaza, with full respect for international humanitarian law and human rights law. The suffering of people in the occupied Palestinian territories and Israel has been unbearable. Palestinians and Israelis need peace and security, on the basis of full dignity and equality,” Turk said.
He further reiterated that international law is unequivocal on the matter, citing the International Court of Justice’s reaffirmation of the right to self-determination.
“Any forcible transfer in or deportation of people from occupied territory is strictly prohibited,” he stated.
Trump’s proposal sparked immediate backlash from Palestinian leaders, Middle Eastern governments, and international officials, all of whom condemned the idea as unfeasible and unlawful. Many expressed shock at his remarks, which drew audible gasps from attendees at the White House press conference.
As global reactions continue to mount, experts warn that any forced displacement of Gaza’s population could further destabilize the region and deepen the humanitarian crisis.
