White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt closes a curtain before U.S. President Donald Trump signs documents in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, U.S. February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz
White House Clarifies U.S. Role in Gaza, Rules Out Troop Deployment
Washington, D.C. – The White House stated on Wednesday that President Donald Trump has not committed to deploying U.S. troops to the Gaza Strip, despite his proposal for a U.S.-led rebuilding effort in the Palestinian enclave.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified the administration’s stance, emphasizing that while Trump believes U.S. involvement is necessary for stability, it does not include placing American troops on the ground.
“That does not mean boots on the ground in Gaza,” Leavitt told reporters.
Temporary Relocation of Palestinians
Leavitt also reiterated Trump’s position that Palestinians living in Gaza should be “temporarily relocated” to facilitate the region’s reconstruction. This marks a shift in rhetoric from Trump’s earlier remarks on Tuesday, when he suggested permanently resettling Palestinians outside of Gaza, a statement that drew widespread international condemnation.
The press secretary did not provide further details on the apparent change in tone regarding the fate of Gaza’s population.
Trump’s comments have sparked concerns among Middle Eastern leaders and human rights organizations, who argue that forcible displacement of Palestinians violates international law and undermines efforts for a sustainable peace agreement in the region.
International Reaction and Next Steps
The administration has yet to outline a comprehensive strategy for its involvement in Gaza’s reconstruction. Key U.S. allies and international organizations have expressed skepticism over Washington’s role in governing or rebuilding Gaza without broader regional cooperation.
The White House is expected to provide further details on its proposed Gaza policy in the coming days.
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