PA Threatens to Sever Ties with U.S. Over Proposed Gaza Plan

The Palestinian Authority (PA) tried to issue a stern warning to the United States, stating that it will sever diplomatic ties if President Donald Trump proceeds with his controversial proposal concerning the Gaza Strip. This plan involves the U.S. taking control of Gaza and relocating its approximately two million Palestinian residents to neighboring countries

Ahmad Majdalani, a senior official in the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and close confidant to PA President Mahmoud Abbas, expressed vehement opposition to the proposal. He characterized the plan as an “expulsion” that poses an “existential threat” to the Palestinian cause. Majdalani emphasized that if President Trump insists on advancing this proposal, the PA would have no choice but to cut all ties with the U.S.

This is not the first time the PA has lashed out at Washington; during Trump’s first term, Abbas cut ties with the U.S. after it recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

The idea of resettling Gaza’s population elsewhere has been discussed in various diplomatic circles, particularly in light of Hamas’s role in the October 7th massacre, which demonstrated the ongoing security threat posed by the terror group. Many Israeli voices have argued that long-term peace will only be possible if Hamas is eradicated and the demographic and strategic challenges of Gaza are addressed.

The Arab world, however, has largely rejected the notion of absorbing Gazan refugees, despite the fact that many of these countries have historically used them as political pawns rather than granting them full rights and citizenship. Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have all voiced opposition to any relocation efforts, reinforcing their long-standing refusal to take responsibility for the consequences of Hamas’s actions.

From an Israeli perspective, the future of Gaza must be determined with the security and well-being of Am Yisrael in mind. Since October 7th, Hamas has proven beyond doubt that it remains committed to Israel’s destruction. While the international community debates various solutions, Israel’s priority remains defending its citizens and ensuring that Gaza never again serves as a launching pad for terror.

Publicly, many leaders try to oppose Trump, but as seen with Ukrainian President Zelensky, at the end of the day, the reliance on the US is so strong that they have no choice. This is true about Israel as well and the PA is likely in a very similar situation.