‘Hell worse than what we have already?’ Gazans reject Trump plans

People walk with belongings along the Wadi Gaza bridge along al-Rashid street across between Gaza City and Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip on February 10, 2025 as displaced people return home amid the current ceasefire deal in the war between Israel and Hamas. (AFP)
People walk with belongings along the Wadi Gaza bridge along al-Rashid street across between Gaza City and Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip on February 10, 2025 as displaced people return home amid the current ceasefire deal in the war between Israel and Hamas. (AFP)
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Updated 12 February 2025
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‘Hell worse than what we have already?’ Gazans reject Trump plans

‘Hell worse than what we have already?’ Gazans reject Trump plans
  • Under Trump’s scheme, Gaza’s about 2.2 million Palestinians would be resettled and the United States would take control and ownership of the coastal territory, redeveloping it into the “Riviera of the Middle East”
  • Any suggestion that Palestinians leave Gaza — which they want to be part of an independent state also encompassing the West Bank with East Jerusalem as its capital — has been anathema to the Palestinian leadership for generations

CAIRO/RAMALLAH/GAZA: With his Gaza home destroyed in Israel’s military offensive, Shaban Shaqaleh had intended to take his family on a break to Egypt once the Hamas-Israel ceasefire was firmly in place.
He changed his mind after US President Donald Trump announced plans to resettle Gaza’s Palestinian residents and redevelop the enclave, and said they should not have the right to return.
The Tel Al-Hawa neighborhood in Gaza City, where dozens of multi-story buildings once stood, is now largely deserted. There is no running water or electricity and, like most buildings there, Shaqaleh’s home is in ruins.
“We are horrified by the destruction, the repeated displacement and the death, and I wanted to leave so I can secure a safe and better future for my children — until Trump said what he said,” Shaqaleh, 47, told Reuters via a chat app.
“After Trump’s remarks I canceled the idea. I fear leaving and never being able to come back. This is my homeland.”
Palestinians fear that Trump’s plan would enforce another Nakba, or Catastrophe, when they experienced mass expulsions in 1948 with the creation of Israel.
Under Trump’s scheme, Gaza’s about 2.2 million Palestinians would be resettled and the United States would take control and ownership of the coastal territory, redeveloping it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
“The idea of selling my home or the piece of land I own to foreign companies to leave the homeland and never come back is completely rejected. I am deeply rooted in the soil of my homeland and will always be,” Shaqaleh said.
Any suggestion that Palestinians leave Gaza — which they want to be part of an independent state also encompassing the West Bank with East Jerusalem as its capital — has been anathema to the Palestinian leadership for generations. Neighbouring Arab states have rejected it since the Gaza war began in 2023.

SATURDAY DEADLINE
After Hamas said on Monday it was suspending the release of Israeli hostages set out in the ceasefire deal due to alleged Israeli violations, Trump said the Palestinian militant group should release all those it still holds by noon on Saturday or he would propose canceling the truce and “let hell break out.”
“Hell worse than what we have already? Hell worse than killing?” said Jomaa Abu Kosh, a Palestinian from Rafah in southern Gaza, standing beside devastated homes.
One woman, Samira Al-Sabea, accused Israel of blocking aid deliveries, a charge denied by Israel.
“We are humiliated, street dogs are living a better life than us,” she said. “And Trump wants to make Gaza hell? This will never happen.”
Israel began its assault on Gaza after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, that killed about 1,200 people while some 250 were taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies.
The operation has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians, by Gaza authorities’ counts, and obliterated much of the enclave.
Some Gazans said Palestinian leaders must find a solution to their problems.
“We don’t want to leave our country but also need a solution. Our leaders — Hamas, the PA (Palestinian Authority) and other factions — must find a solution,” said a 40-year-old carpenter who gave his name as Jehad.

’DOES HE OWN GAZA?“
In the occupied West Bank, Palestinians were also aghast at Trump’s words.
“Does he own Gaza to ask people to leave it?” said Nader Imam. “Regarding Trump I only blame the American people. How can a country like this, a superpower, accept a person like Trump? His statements are savage.”
“What will Trump do? There is no fear, we rely on God,” said another West Bank resident, Mohammed Salah Tamimi.
The proposal shattered decades of US peace efforts built around a two-state solution and added pressure on neighboring Egypt and Jordan to take in resettled Palestinians.
Both countries, who receive billions in aid from the United States, rejected the plan citing concerns for national security and their commitment to the two-state solution.
For Jordan, which borders the West Bank and has absorbed more Palestinians than any other state since Israel’s creation, the plan is a nightmare.
Trump said he might withhold aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refused to cooperate. Jordan’s King Abdullah is set to meet Trump in Washington on Tuesday and is expected to express his rejection of the plan.
“Jordan can never accept resolving this issue at its expense.” said Suleiman Saud, the chairman of the Palestine Committee in Jordan’s House of Representatives. “Jordan is for Jordanians, and Palestine is for Palestinians.”

 


Arab American mayors in Michigan nominated by Trump as ambassador to Kuwait and Tunisia

Arab American mayors in Michigan nominated by Trump as ambassador to Kuwait and Tunisia
Updated 15 March 2025
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Arab American mayors in Michigan nominated by Trump as ambassador to Kuwait and Tunisia

Arab American mayors in Michigan nominated by Trump as ambassador to Kuwait and Tunisia
  • Amer Ghalib and Bill Bazzi were among a number of Muslim leaders from the state who publicly endorsed Trump for the presidency last year
  • ‘It’s a great honor to have the trust of the president,’ Ghalib tells Arab News. ‘I will utilize my skills … to strengthen the relationship between’ the US and Kuwait

CHICAGO: Amer Ghalib, the mayor of Hamtramck, Michigan, said on Friday he was “honored” to be nominated by President Donald Trump for the post of US ambassador to Kuwait.
Meanwhile, Bill Bazzi, the mayor of Dearborn Heights, also in Michigan, was nominated by Trump this week to serve as the US envoy to Tunisia.
Arab American Muslims Ghalib and Bazzi were among the Michigan officials who publicly endorsed Trump for the presidency last year over Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
“It’s a great honor to have the trust of the president placed in me to represent our great county and serve as the next ambassador to the State of Kuwait,” Ghalib told Arab News on Friday.

Dearborn Heights, Michigan, Mayor Bill Bazzi†speaks as U.S. President Donald Trump listens during a campaign rally at Suburban Collection Showplace on October 26, 2024 in Novi, Michigan. (AFP file photo)

“I will utilize my skills, Arabic language, cultural understanding and diverse background to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. I’m excited about my next chapter in my journey and I’ll make the American people proud of me.”
Ghalib, who became mayor of Hamtramck in November 2021, is the first Arab American and Muslim to hold the office in the city, which has a Muslim-majority population.
Trump was officially endorsed during his run for president by Ghalib and Bazzi, and several other Arab and Muslim leaders and imams from Michigan, on Oct. 26 last year during a press conference in the city of Novi.
Bazzi did not respond to Arab News when asked to comment on his nomination, but in a message posted on Facebook, he wrote: “I am honored and appreciate President Donald Trump’s appointment to serve as US Ambassador to Tunisia.
“Among the distinct countries I have visited over the years, I hold a great affinity to Tunisia and its honorable parliament, elected officials, educators, and other industry leaders — along with the people I met while touring orphanages, women’s career institutions, schools, and a multitude of companies which distinguish the country’s rising presence in the region.
“With my visits overseas, the cohort’s visits to the US, and the relations we have established over the years, I am excited to return and honorably represent our Country in Tunisia as its US Ambassador. My purpose is to continue serving in capacities which make an impact, promote peace and diplomatic partnerships, which benefit our Country and enhance global relations.”
Trump wrote on social media platform X: “Bazzi is a decorated US Marine, who honorably served our Country for 21 years, collaborating with US Embassy Ambassadors, Diplomats, and Leaders throughout the world.”
Bazzi, who was born in Bint Jbeil, Lebanon, was appointed mayor of Dearborn Heights in January 2021 following the death of the incumbent and won the election for the office in November that year. He had previously served as the temporary chairperson of Dearborn Heights City Council since 2017.
Bishara Bahbah, the founder of Arab Americans for Trump, an organization that worked in several states to rally Arab and Muslim American elected officials and leaders in support of Trump’s presidential campaign, praised the appointments of Ghalib and Bazzi as “a demonstration of the president’s commitment to the Arab and Muslim community.”
He told Arab News: “Arab Americans for Peace, formerly Arab Americans for Trump, is delighted with President Trump’s nomination of two distinguished Arab American mayors from Michigan as the new ambassadors to Kuwait and Tunisia.
“Both men risked their political careers, having been elected as Democrats to their posts. Mayor Bazzi and Mayor Ghalib are outstanding individuals who wanted to see the end of the wars in both Gaza and Lebanon.”
The nominations reflect the growing influence of Arab Americans in US politics, Bahbah said, and are “a testament to the newfound power of Arab Americans in this past US presidential election and future presidential elections.
“We are confident that both mayors will be effective ambassadors representing the best interests of the United States. Their Arab backgrounds will undoubtedly help foster better US-Kuwaiti and US-Tunisian diplomatic relations.”
The nominations must now be considered and approved by a majority vote in the US Senate.

 


Turkiye says it will closely monitor a Syrian government deal with a Kurdish armed group

Turkiye says it will closely monitor a Syrian government deal with a Kurdish armed group
Updated 15 March 2025
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Turkiye says it will closely monitor a Syrian government deal with a Kurdish armed group

Turkiye says it will closely monitor a Syrian government deal with a Kurdish armed group
  • Turkish FM says deal integrating the Kurdish-led SDF into Syria's armed forces looks fine
  • But Ankara will watch for potential future provocations that could threaten Turkiye's stability

ISTANBUL: Turkiye’s foreign minister said Friday that Ankara is closely monitoring an agreement between the Syrian government and a US-backed Kurdish-led armed group, expressing concern over potential future provocations and plots that could threaten Turkiye’s security.
Hakan Fidan, speaking in an interview with the Turkish TV100 channel, said Turkiye had relayed its concerns to Syrian officials in a sudden visit to Syria on Thursday.
“If there is an agreement signed with good intentions, let it be done, but there may be some problems or mines planted for the future,” he said. “We as Turkiye are monitoring these very closely.”
The agreement to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, into the Syrian government followed fierce clashes that erupted last week between government security forces and gunmen loyal to ousted leader Bashar Assad.
Fidan said Turkiye does not see the deal as granting autonomy to the SDF. “No one should feel like a minority but should feel like they are a special part of a greater prosperity by benefiting from equal opportunities,” he said.
The SDF is a US-backed Kurdish military alliance in northeastern Syria that has a presence in most of the territory in that part of the country.
Turkiye designates the SDF and its military arm, the People’s Protection Units, or YPG, as terrorist organizations because of their links to the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party.
Addressing a question on whether the YPG and SDF could be integrated into the Syrian army without laying down arms, Fidan said the issue had been discussed with the new Syrian leaders, including interim leader Ahmad Al-Sharaa. He said Turkiye’s top intelligence officials were also present and that Turkiye would remain vigilant in assessing any progress on the issue.
Fidan said Al-Sharaa assured him that the articles in the deal would call for the YPG to be fully integrated into the Syrian army.
Al-Sharaa “actually said that the current articles (are aligned with Turkish interests).” ... The agreement made will completely include the YPG in the army.”
“Essentially, what we have been saying from the very beginning is this: The new Syrian administration must take the initiative to end the YPG occupation and piracy,” Fidan said, referring to the continued presence of the group in the area.
Fidan added that Turkiye would keep a close watch on developments, stressing that “life should return to normal” for all communities in Syria, including Kurds, Arabs, Turkmens, Christians and Alawites.


G7 calls for resumption of ‘unhindered’ aid for Gaza

G7 calls for resumption of ‘unhindered’ aid for Gaza
Updated 15 March 2025
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G7 calls for resumption of ‘unhindered’ aid for Gaza

G7 calls for resumption of ‘unhindered’ aid for Gaza
  • “Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this ‘bridge’ would have to be implemented soon — and that dual US Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would have to be released immediately,” the statement said

CHARLEVOIX, Canada: The G7 on Friday called for the resumption of “unhindered” humanitarian aid for Gaza.
In a final statement from their foreign ministers in Canada, the group of powerful democracies “reaffirmed their support for the resumption of unhindered humanitarian aid into Gaza and for a permanent ceasefire.”
The White House, meanwhile, accused Hamas on Friday of making “entirely impractical” demands and stalling on a deal to release a US Israeli hostage in exchange for an extension of the Gaza ceasefire.

FASTFACT

The White House accused Hamas on Friday of making ‘entirely impractical’ demands and stalling on a deal to release a US Israeli hostage in exchange for an extension of the Gaza ceasefire.

“Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,” a statement from the office of President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and the US National Security Council said.
“Hamas is well aware of the deadline, and should know that we will respond accordingly if that deadline passes,” it said, adding that Trump had already vowed Hamas would “pay a severe price” for not freeing hostages.
Witkoff presented a “bridge” proposal in Qatar on Wednesday to extend the first phase of the truce to mid-April if Hamas releases living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
“Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this ‘bridge’ would have to be implemented soon — and that dual US Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would have to be released immediately,” the statement said.
“Unfortunately, Hamas has chosen to respond by publicly claiming flexibility while privately making demands that are entirely impractical without a permanent ceasefire,” it added.

 


Bahrain set to launch first locally developed satellite

Bahrain set to launch first locally developed satellite
Updated 15 March 2025
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Bahrain set to launch first locally developed satellite

Bahrain set to launch first locally developed satellite
  • Project spearheaded by National Space Science Agency

MANAMA: Bahrain is set to launch Al-Munther on Saturday, its first domestically designed and developed satellite.

The project is spearheaded by the National Space Science Agency and marks a milestone for Bahrain’s space ambitions.

The craft, a 3U CubeSat, is the first satellite in the region to integrate artificial intelligence for onboard image processing, setting a new benchmark for technological innovation.

Equipped with advanced payloads, it features an Earth observation camera, a cybersecurity system, and a unique broadcast function that will transmit Bahrain’s national anthem and a message from King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa from space.

The satellite will operate in a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 550 km and is expected to have a two-year lifespan.

It is scheduled for launch onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex in California.

Al-Munther, which means herald or messenger, symbolizes Bahrain’s forward-looking vision and commitment to innovation, and highlights its dedication to building a sustainable space infrastructure, fostering research and development, and inspiring future generations to pursue advancements in science and technology.


Lebanon pushes social safety net plan

Lebanon pushes social safety net plan
Updated 15 March 2025
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Lebanon pushes social safety net plan

Lebanon pushes social safety net plan
  • Protecting the poor is essential for civic stability, prime minister tells major dialogue

BEIRUT: Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said on Friday the government’s top priority is to restore confidence in the country by prioritizing social policies and economic reforms.

The remarks came at an expanded meeting at the Grand Serail, Salam’s official residence, on social safety nets in Lebanon, under the theme “The Next Phase of Reform.”

The event, organized by Social Affairs Minister Haneen Sayed, drew numerous diplomats and officials from UN-affiliated agencies.

FASTFACT

Health Minister Rakan Nasreddine introduced the ‘Aqwa’ program in collaboration with UNICEF. It provide support for children who were injured during the recent war in southern Lebanon.

Salam underscored Lebanon’s profound ongoing social crisis, saying stability could not be maintained without addressing social issues.

He said poverty rates were already high before the recent war between Israel and Hezbollah, reaching a nationwide 44 percent.

Young children are the most vulnerable, with their poverty rates surging to unprecedented levels.

The prime minister added that food insecurity and limited access to healthcare remain significant risks.

In a statement, his government committed to establishing a comprehensive social protection system and to increase social spending.

According to the proposals, the government — through the Ministry of Social Affairs — will implement the National Social Protection Strategy. This involves strengthening social safety nets, including for those in poverty and needing disability support programs.

The government said it aims to ensure adequate healthcare coverage for the most vulnerable through primary healthcare centers, secure the minimum educational requirements for children and adolescents in public schools and vocational institutions, and support the poor in integrating into the labor market through economic inclusion programs.

Salam, who previously pledged that his government was committed to implementing reforms, reiterated on Friday his desire first to enact change in the National Social Security Fund.

“We are committed to ensuring the highest levels of transparency and accountability in our programs,” he said.

Currently, social assistance covers only 55 percent of Lebanon’s poor.

Approximately 800,000 Lebanese, or 166,000 families, receive support through the Aman program.

Around 20,000 people with disabilities benefit from a cash allowance program, and approximately 170,000 people receive emergency cash assistance.

Social Affairs Minister Sayed stated that her ministry aims to “expand direct cash support, strengthen ties with social services, build institutional capacity and infrastructure, and enhance coordination and system alignment.”

She added: “Due to the rising poverty rates following the recent war, the poor are facing severe food insecurity, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare.

“Children under the age of 5 are at the greatest risk, suffering from alarmingly high poverty rates and receiving the least coverage through social safety nets.”

Under the slogan “The government’s commitment to increasing social protection spending from the state budget,” Sayyed announced the launch of the reform workshop in collaboration with the prime minister’s office.

Her ministry will also activate the Social Safety Net Task Force to enhance collaboration among ministries and partners, improve internal systems, and upgrade development service centers.

It will also propose a Social Safety Nets Law to ensure the long-term viability of the reform efforts.

In a related move, Health Minister Rakan Nasreddine introduced the “Aqwa” program (Arabic for “stronger”) in collaboration with UNICEF.

This program aims to provide support and care for children who were injured during the recent war in southern Lebanon.

It will be implemented in partnership with the International Network for Aid Relief and Assistance and the Ghassan Abu Sittah Children’s Fund.

According to the Health Ministry, around 1,500 children have sustained severe and moderate injuries, many of whom require reconstructive surgeries and ongoing mental healthcare.

Nasreddine emphasized the immense suffering of these children, highlighting both the number and the severity of their injuries.

He underscored that the launch of the program is a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding everything that the war has destroyed, both in terms of infrastructure and human lives.

“The program goes beyond traditional surgical interventions to encompass mental health services, physical therapy, and reconstructive surgeries, among other critical care for children under 18,” he added.

At the end of last February, UNICEF released a report revealing the devastating impact of the recent war on children, which affected almost every aspect of their lives. Many urgently require support to heal, rebuild their lives, and cope with the lasting effects of this conflict, the UN body said.