Donald Trump's pro-Israel legacy continues to shine with his bold new vision: a modern city for Palestinians, to be built by their Arab neighbors in the rich Gulf states. This ambitious plan could become the defining achievement of his second term, as it promises a brighter future for the displaced Palestinians and a tangible step towards lasting peace.
Imagine a thriving metropolis rising from the heart of Jordan or Egypt's Sinai – a city equal to Dubai in infrastructure, offering homes, jobs, and opportunities to millions of Palestinians. Crucially, this city would be funded by the Gulf states, ensuring America's taxpayers no longer shoulder the burdens of the Middle East.
Trump's proposal could resonate strongly with his base: 'No more American funding for UNRWA or policing the Middle East. Let the oil-rich Arabs take responsibility for their own region.'
The blueprint is there, considering Dubai's remarkable transformation from a fishing village to a global hub in just 50 years, and Israel's success in turning a sand spit into a tech powerhouse like Tel Aviv. The cost of this project, estimated at $50-100 billion, is a drop in the bucket for Gulf states, whose combined GDP exceeds $1.2 trillion. They have the funds and the manpower – Saudi Arabia's NEOM, for instance, is an ambitious $500 billion project of its own, built on desert dreams.
Trump, with his influence over the Gulf's strategic alliances, could make this vision a reality. He could work with the region's leaders to secure their participation: 'Build this city, or I will review your oil deals and defense agreements with Israel.'
This, to them, is not just a humanitarian endeavor, but a strategic move. Recent Arab unrest amongst the Palestinian population threatens their stability. A new city could potentially serve as a buffer, easing tension and maintaining the region's peace. The Gulf states could also gain the favor of the Muslim world as problem-solvers, rather than merely check-writers.
Convincing the Palestinians may prove challenging, as groups like Hamas and the PA have long thrived on conflict with Israel. However, by framing this proposal as the creation of their own state, separate from Israel, Trump may be able to win them over. This would mark a major shift, as Arab states have historically used the Palestinian cause as a tool to exert pressure on Israel, rather than addressing it as a humanitarian issue.
Trump's proposal, while audacious, is worth considering. While it may face challenges, the benefits – a more peaceful Middle East, with America less entangled in regional conflicts – could be immense. Let's hope this bold move signals a new era of collaboration, paving the way for a brighter future for all.