We reject Trump’s plan for Gaza

For Immediate Release
Feb. 11, 2025

Kalamazoo Nonviolent Opponents of War (KNOW) comments on the recent statement by President Trump on the future of Gaza

KALAMAZOO, MI — There are 3 points which need to be made.

First of all, President Trump needs a history lesson. Who lives in Gaza? 75% of them are refugees who were removed at gunpoint in 1948 from what became the state of Israel. They have the internationally recognized right to return to their lands and farms, which many of them can see across the militarized fence holding them in. Their situation has been described as an open-air prison or concentration camp. 

According to UN resolutions, Palestinians and their descendants have the right to return to their properties in what is now Israel, if they desire to do so. That is their right, and it is their right to remain in Gaza without being forcibly removed yet again.

Secondly, the English language fails us when we try to describe what President Trump is proposing. It is our government and the US taxpayer who have destroyed 92% of the homes in Gaza, in addition to nearly all of Gaza’s universities, schools, and hospitals. This was done with US bombs. The people of Gaza have only just begun to dig out their loved ones who lie dead under the rubble. It is beyond disgusting and despicable to suggest that this land be made into a theme park for the rich.  This land is of, by, and for Palestinians, and they will rebuild.

Thirdly, what our government must do now to stop further horror in our name, is stop all military aid to Israel and fully fund UNRWA to provide desperately needed aid.