Reform Leadership Responds to President Trump’s Recent Comments on Gaza

We strongly condemn the proposal described by President Donald Trump of a U.S. takeover of the Gaza Strip in the form of a real estate development plan. Whether this was an unfiltered, spontaneous utterance or the first seed of a serious plan, it is unrealistic and dangerous. The transfer of two million Palestinians from Gaza to undetermined locations as well as the imposition of U.S. control over Gaza will cause additional regional instability. It poses grave security risks to Israel. It undermines Palestinian self-determination. It jeopardizes the current ceasefire and hostage release deal, as well as their future phases. And it impedes the longstanding principle of a negotiated two-state solution, which, despite everything, still holds the best possibility for peace, stability, and a secure, viable future for all those in the region.

Statements today qualifying the President’s remarks indicate there is already growing understanding within the Administration of how dangerous this proposal is. Nonetheless, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s reaction and those of his political allies was deeply dismaying, if not surprising. While there is no question that Israel’s security is vital, this proposal will not accomplish that. Emptying Gaza of Palestinians is neither an acceptable strategic nor moral action.

This moment requires bold thinking to bring safety and autonomy to Israel and the Palestinians. What was proposed yesterday will not build that future; it will undermine it. Forcibly removing either populace will only perpetuate the conflict. Notably, yesterday’s plan also did not spotlight continuing to the next phase of ceasefire negotiations and freeing the remaining hostages, which must remain central to any conversations regarding the region.

Union for Reform Judaism

American Conference of Cantors 

Association of Reform Jewish Educators

Central Conference of American Rabbis 

Men of Reform Judaism

Women of Reform Judaism