Hamas has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for sharing an AI-generated video on his Truth Social account that depicts Gaza as a future luxury resort, complete with skyscrapers, sports cars, and a golden statue of himself. The controversial video envisions Gaza as a “Riviera-style” destination, owned by the United States, following the expulsion of 2.1 million Palestinians from the enclave.
The video, which appears to have been created using generative AI, begins with images of war-torn Gaza, showing barefoot Palestinian children walking through rubble. The scene then transforms into a futuristic city with high-rise buildings, luxury yachts, and dancing entertainers. Among the bizarre elements featured are a shirtless Trump sipping cocktails with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, billionaire Elon Musk eating hummus, and a shop selling Trump souvenirs. A large ‘Trump Gaza’ tower dominates the city skyline, reinforcing the proposed transformation.
Basem Naim, a spokesperson for Hamas’ Political Bureau, condemned Trump’s vision, stating that it disregards Palestinian identity and aspirations. “Unfortunately, Trump is once again proposing ideas that do not take into account the cultures and interests of the people,” Naim told Newsweek.
He emphasized that Palestinians want Gaza to be rebuilt and economically revived, but not under occupation or foreign control. “We are not struggling to improve prison conditions, but to get rid of the prison and the jailer,” he added, rejecting the idea of forced displacement in exchange for redevelopment.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has endorsed the plan, calling it “creative” and claiming it has the potential to “change Gaza”. However, he stated that any displaced Palestinians who wish to return must first “disavow terrorism.” Netanyahu has suggested that a Palestinian state could be established in Saudi Arabia as an alternative solution.
Meanwhile, Arab leaders, led by Egypt, are preparing a formal response to Trump’s proposal. A summit in Cairo on March 4 will discuss the implications of the plan, with leaders expected to present their stance to the U.S. administration at a later date.
Trump’s AI-generated video has sparked outrage and debate, with critics calling it tone-deaf and deeply insensitive given the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While supporters argue that redevelopment could bring economic opportunity, opponents see it as an attempt to erase Palestinian identity and history.
As the political, diplomatic, and humanitarian consequences unfold, Gaza’s future remains uncertain, with both regional and global leaders weighing in on the controversial proposal.