House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on Wednesday praised President Donald Trump's proposal for the U.S. to take over the war-torn Gaza Strip and said House Republicans would stand with Trump on his initiative.
"The initial announcement yesterday I think was greeted by surprise by many, but cheered, by I think, people all around the world," Johnson told a press conference. "Why? Because that area is so dangerous, and he's taking bold, decisive action to try to secure the peace of that region."
Meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, Trump proposed the United States take over Gaza and create a "Riviera of the Middle East" after resettling Palestinians elsewhere.
Johnson said he awaited further details on Trump's plan. He said he would discuss the issue with Netanyahu when he meets with him at the U.S. Capitol on Thursday.
Johnson said there is a risk of another attack on Israel like the Hamas attack of Oct. 7, 2023, if Gaza remains "in its present form" and it made sense to minimize the risk.
"I think people understand the necessity of it, and we're going to stand with Israel as they work towards this goal. And we'll stand with the President on his initiative," Johnson said.
Trump's surprise proposal to take over Gaza after resettling Palestinians elsewhere has shattered U.S. policy on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and sparked widespread condemnation.