Trump’s Proposal to Displace Palestinian People of Gaza is an Unacceptable Crime of Ethnic Cleansing
Geneva 6 February 2025
Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) strongly condemns the recent proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump to forcibly transfer Palestinian people from Gaza. This action constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and fundamental ethical principles. It sets a dangerous precedent, reminiscent of historical cases of ethnic cleansing and forced displacement which have been widely denounced by the international community. GICJ unequivocally opposes such measures and calls for a just and sustainable solution that fully guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people in accordance with international law.
The forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza would constitute a grave violation of international humanitarian law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, which explicitly prohibits the forcible transfer of protected populations. The United Nations and leading human rights organisations have long affirmed that such acts amount to war crimes. Any political leader or administration that endorses forced displacement undermines well-established legal frameworks and contributes to global instability by setting a precedent for similar violations elsewhere in our troubled world.
Furthermore, the proposed mass transfer completely disregards the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination and sovereignty over their land. Gaza is home to over two million Palestinians, many of whom are already refugees due to previous Israeli violations. Forcibly displacing this integral part of the Palestinian population does not provide a solution to the immense suffering caused by the occupation. As of 6 February 2025, over 47,500 Palestinians have been murdered by the Israeli Occupation Forces since October 2023, with a further 111,500 injured. Schools, hospitals and places of worship have been systematically destroyed, leaving the Gaza region a shell of what it was prior to the assault.
President Trump’s proposal entails a U.S.-led takeover of the Gaza Strip, suggesting the forced relocation of its approximately two million Palestinian residents to neighbouring countries such as Egypt and Jordan. He envisions transforming Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East" through extensive redevelopment. This proposal has been widely condemned by Palestinians, Arab nations, and human rights organisations, who rightly denounce it as a form of ethnic cleansing and a flagrant violation of international law. Forcibly expelling Palestinians disregards their right to self-determination and violates international prohibitions on the forced transfer of protected populations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for the idea, stating that there is "nothing wrong" with allowing Gazans to leave. This statement falsely implies a choice for the Palestinians. In reality, this would leave them with no option but to flee, as military force and relentless aggression would be used to coerce them into abandoning their rightful homeland.
In response to this evil attempt, the international community must act urgently to lift the blockade on Gaza, ensure humanitarian aid, and initiate a comprehensive campaign to rebuild what has been destroyed by the Occupation Forces during their war on Gaza. The international community must exert all efforts to establish a comprehensive and lasting solution based on respect for international law and the rights of the Palestinian people. Sustainable peace cannot be achieved through coercion and displacement, but must be built on justice, and the recognition of human rights.
Moreover, GICJ calls for the immediate enforcement of arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israeli leaders responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide enacted upon the Palestinian people. Forced displacement, indiscriminate attacks on civilians, and other violations of international law must be met with accountability. The ICC plays a crucial role in deterring future crimes and reaffirming the principles of international justice. Ensuring that those responsible for such violations are held accountable is both a legal obligation and a moral imperative.
Conclusion
Geneva International Centre for Justice firmly rejects any proposal for the forced displacement of Palestinian residents from Gaza. Such actions are illegal, unethical, and will only add more suffering for the Palestinian people. The international community must take a decisive stand against forced displacement and advocate for a resolution that upholds the dignity, sovereignty, and rights of the Palestinian people. History has shown the devastating consequences of forced expulsion, and it is our collective duty to take all measures to prevent the repetition of this horrible crime.
