Host of “Real Time,” Bill Maher, did not completely dismiss President Donald Trump’s proposed plans for the Gaza Strip. Maher leaned towards the idea that the war-torn territory could potentially transform into something different in the future.
Trump sparked international attention by suggesting that the U.S. would “take over” and “develop” Gaza after Israel’s conflict with Hamas, relocating Palestinians to other Arab nations while creating the “riviera of the Middle East” for stability in the region.
During a panel discussion, Maher expressed a slight difference in opinion compared to his guest Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., regarding the topic.
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“He mentioned turning it into the riviera, which sounds a bit far-fetched,” Maher remarked. “But the concept that it could be transformed into something like Dubai, rather than continuing to be like Haiti, is worth considering. Gaza is currently controlled by a criminal and terrorist group, causing suffering for both Israelis and Palestinians who oppose Hamas.”
“This idea has been discussed in op-eds for years. Gaza doesn’t have to stay the way it is. It could become more like Dubai. So, Trump’s simplistic suggestion is not entirely unreasonable,” Maher added.
“Real Time” host Bill Maher supported Trump’s vision of rebuilding the Gaza Strip. (Screenshot/HBO)
The comedian critiqued Trump’s inconsistencies, particularly when mentioning the U.S. handling explosive removal in Gaza and sarcastically questioning the potential problems. “And again, while the core idea has merit, the practicalities need to be considered, especially in terms of costs for America First advocates,” Maher challenged Donalds.
Tara Palmeri from Puck News chimed in, likening Trump’s Gaza proposal to Atlantic City, highlighting the consequences of Trump’s actions in the past in that region.
“I wouldn’t trust him with Gaza,” Palmeri shared with Maher.
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U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu answer questions during a joint press conference in the East Room at the White House in Washington, U.S., February 4, 2025 ( REUTERS/Leah Millis)
Donalds countered, indicating a preference for Trump to handle Gaza over the Iranians.
“The suggestion of American troops has been retracted. However, a vision for the region’s future is essential,” Donalds emphasized. “Could Israeli involvement play a role? Certainly. Saudi Arabia’s involvement is also plausible. It all depends on the desires of other nations in that area, but nobody wants Iran dominating the region.”
“I concur with the idea of introducing new perspectives to prevent groupthink. For instance, during the Syrian Civil War, Germany accepted refugees, while Saudi Arabia did not. It’s important to challenge such notions and focus on building sustainable peace in the region,” Maher added.
