The Suncoast Jewish Alliance is greatly disturbed about the current Administration’s proposed takeover of Gaza. It appears that the highsounding intent of the relocation of Gazans is an opportunist’s real estate grab. Gaza could become a prime waterfront domain for development as has been shamelessly stated.

Administration officials and advisors cloak the recent proposal as a heroic and humanitarian solution of the decades-long war between Israel and its Mideast enemies. But such an outrageously reckless, short-sighted policy does not protect Israel; it further inflames state-supported terrorists and encourages the consolidation of forces against Israel in the Mideast and against the United States. The proposal insults the many people of faith to whom the Middle East lands are holy.

Administration should engage the global community to rebuild Gaza with safe, affordable housing and infrastructure to support the local economy, communities and culture. Furthermore, any new governance structure of the Gaza Strip must keep Hamas and its terrorist networks out and provide security for Israel and for the inhabitants of Gaza.