Donald Trump is aiming to reshape the Gaza Strip, envisioning it as the "Riviera of the Middle East". His plans, previously vague, have now been illustrated through a startling AI-generated video released on Truth Social. This video showcases Trump’s perspective on what Gaza could become under U.S. control.
The 30-second clip, which debuted on February 26, 2025, opens with images of children running through the ruins of Gaza. They transition from the destruction to scenes featuring pristine beaches and extravagant lifestyles. One chilling scene shows the characters dancing merrily under dollar bills raining down, just as the words "Trump Gaza" fade onto the screen.
Not only is the U.S. president seen reveling in this vision, but he also shares the screen with tech titan Elon Musk, who enjoys hummus on the beach. These surreal depictions are accompanied by AI-generated music laden with catchy phrases, such as, "Donald is coming to set you free. He brings life, everyone can see it. No more tunnels and no more fear. Trump Gaza is finally here. Trump Gaza shines bright, golden future, a brand new light."
The video enters surreal territory with images of people dancing in vibrant attire, luxury cars cruising newly paved roads, and yachts anchored offshore. It paints Gaza not as the epicenter of conflict it is, but as a vibrant holiday destination, complete with Trump lounging by the pool alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Reactions to the video have been widespread and intense, taking over social media platforms. Many users expressed disbelief, with one stating, "You have to see it to believe it," and another lamenting, "This is just pure evil." Skepticism turned quickly to outrage as individuals questioned the ethics behind such depictions. A user poignantly remarked, "Is this really true? I mean the question seriously. That's just unbelievable!"
Trump's controversial proposition for Gaza includes not only asserting U.S. control but also resettling its 2.3 million residents elsewhere—an idea ripped apart by leaders across the Arab world who see it as ethnic cleansing. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan have publicly rejected the notion of American governance over Gaza, affirming instead their commitment to the rights of its current inhabitants.
Drawing from historical tensions, the Gaza Strip has been embroiled in conflict since the outbreak of violence on October 7, 2023. This began when Hamas launched attacks on southern Israel, resulting in monumental casualties and setting off responses from the Israeli military. Consequently, Gaza has faced mass destruction and significant humanitarian crises.
Despite the heavy toll, Trump sees the U.S. takeover as beneficial, which has been met with shock from the Arab nations. Critics argue the video trivializes the severe reality of life for those impacted by the violence and geopolitical instability.
Since the war's escalation, various leaders have offered plans for Gaza’s reconstruction and governance. For example, Israeli Opposition Leader Yair Lapid has called for Egyptian oversight to establish stability without displacing Gaza’s population. Meanwhile, Hamas has emphatically stated they would never allow American governance.
While the video resurfaces after intensifying debates about the fate of Gaza, many question the legitimacy of Trump's claims against the backdrop of the region's real-world struggles. With the first phase of talks for releasing hostages tangled and uncertainty surrounding ceasefire agreements, there is mounting skepticism about the future of Gaza.
To encapsulate, Trump’s portrayal of Gaza through this AI-generated image as the "Riviera of the Middle East" raises serious ethical concerns. Critics argue it embodies not just whimsical aspirations, but fundamentally dangerous suggestions for forced resettlement. The international community watches closely, assessing the possible fallout as the region grapples with deeply entrenched issues.