A controversial plan allegedly developed by the Trump administration aimed to permanently relocate up to 1 million Palestinians from Gaza to Libya, according to multiple sources, including two with direct knowledge of the discussions and a former U.S. official.
The proposal, part of Trump’s broader “postwar Gaza” strategy, reportedly advanced far enough for U.S. officials to discuss it with Libya’s rival political factions. In exchange for hosting the displaced Palestinians, Libya could gain access to billions of dollars in frozen assets held by the U.S. since the ousting of former leader Moammar Gadhafi.
Though no formal agreement has been reached, Israel was reportedly kept in the loop regarding the talks. However, after the story broke, the U.S. State Department denied any such plan exists, calling the idea both “untenable” and “untrue.” Libyan authorities also issued a public statement rejecting any deal to accept Palestinian deportees or refugees.
Logistics of a Massive Relocation
Despite the denials, sources say the Trump team seriously explored logistics for the potential relocation — including air, land, and sea options. One official estimated it would require over 1,100 Airbus A380 flights to airlift that many people.
But experts warn the lack of a functioning airport in Gaza, paired with Libya’s ongoing instability, makes the plan nearly impossible to implement. Additionally, Libya’s population sits at roughly 7.36 million — meaning an influx of 1 million Palestinians would be the equivalent of the U.S. absorbing about 46 million people overnight.
Strong Rejection from Palestinian Leaders
Palestinian officials have vehemently rejected the notion.
“Palestinians are deeply rooted in their homeland and will fight to defend it. Only Palestinians can decide their own fate,” said Basem Naim, a senior Hamas leader.
Critics argue the plan not only lacks feasibility but also ignores the right of return for Palestinian refugees, a cornerstone issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Trump’s Vision: A Gaza Without Palestinians
In previous comments, Donald Trump made clear his vision for Gaza does not include its current residents. In February, he spoke about turning Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East,” claiming Palestinians would be better off elsewhere.
“You can’t live in Gaza right now,” Trump said. “I think we need another location… a beautiful area where they can be happy and not be killed.”
While no version of the plan has been confirmed publicly, the revelations reignite global concern over forced displacement, the weaponization of aid and assets, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
