'He's totally lost it': Trump's Gaza takeover plan draws strong criticism from world leaders

President Donald Trump's proposal for the United States to take control of the Gaza Strip and relocate Palestinians has drawn sharp condemnation from both international and U.S. political figures.

In a joint press conference on Tuesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump suggested that after Palestinians are resettled elsewhere, the U.S. would "take over" Gaza and attempt to rebuild the region, describing it as "just a demolition site."

He also controversially suggested that Gaza could eventually become the "Riviera of the Middle East."

Trump's remarks have sparked widespread backlash. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri rejected the proposal, calling it an attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians from their homeland, further stoking chaos and tension in the region.

U.S. lawmakers also strongly opposed the proposal. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy called Trump's remarks "dangerous," warning that a U.S. invasion of Gaza would lead to catastrophic loss of life and prolonged conflict.

“He's totally lost it,” he posted on X.

Similarly, Democratic Representative Jake Auchincloss criticized the plan as reckless and politically motivated, questioning Trump's potential personal financial interests in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to a Palestinian state, rejecting Trump's plan. In a statement released early Wednesday, Saudi Arabia reiterated its “unequivocal rejection” of any efforts to infringe upon the rights of Palestinians, including forced displacement.

The kingdom also emphasized that diplomatic relations with Israel would depend on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Saudi Arabia's stance highlights growing tension between the U.S. and key Middle Eastern allies regarding the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Despite Trump's support for normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, the kingdom has made it clear that a lasting peace agreement must address the issue of Palestinian self-determination.