WASHINGTON (NewsNation) — House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., is set to meet Thursday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following President Donald Trump’s announced plans to “take over” Gaza.
Johnson called Trump’s plans to redevelop Gaza a “bold move” that should be considered.
“If we could control that situation and bring about a lasting peace there, it would do well for everybody,” Johnson said at a news conference.
“It just makes sense to make the neighborhood there safer,” he said. “I think it follows common sense.”
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The speaker said he plans to discuss the idea further when meeting with Netanyahu on Thursday at the Capitol.
Meanwhile, Israel says it has begun preparations for the departure of Palestinians from Gaza despite widespread international rejection of Trump’s plan to empty the war-devastated territory of its population. There were no immediate signs of such preparations on the ground Thursday.
Egypt has launched a behind-the-scenes diplomatic blitz against Trump’s proposal, warning it would put its peace deal with Israel at risk, officials said. Palestinians have vehemently rejected Trump’s plan, fearing Israel would never allow refugees to return.
The Trump administration has already dialed back aspects of the proposal, saying the relocation of Palestinians would be temporary. U.S. officials have provided few details about how or when the plan would be carried out.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
