Amid global alarm, top administration officials sought to soften elements of President Trump’s proposal to force Palestinians out of the territory and take it over. Experts said the plan would violate international law.The New York Times reports that the current time in Jerusalem is 9:59 p.m. on February 5. As of February 5, 2025 at 2:58 p.m. ET, the situation in Gaza is being closely monitored and updated. Top officials in the Trump administration are attempting to clarify and soften elements of President Trump’s proposal to potentially relocate Palestinians out of Gaza and take control of the territory. This proposal has sparked global concern and has been deemed a violation of international law by experts. In Jabaliya, Northern Gaza, residents are struggling to stay warm after setting up tents in front of their destroyed homes. Meanwhile, in Khan Younis, Southern Gaza, residents are heading to the Rafah crossing for medical treatment outside of the enclave. In Petach Tikva, Israel, there is a warm welcome for Daniella Gilboa, a hostage who was released from Gaza and has returned home from the hospital. The cease-fire in Gaza has allowed people to return and inspect the ruins of buildings, but many have found nothing but rubble. In Tel Aviv, a billboard bearing a portrait of President Trump can be seen, while in Tulkarm, West Bank, Israeli soldiers are on patrol. Palestinians have begun to return to northern Gaza, but the situation remains tense. As of 2:54 p.m. ET on February 5, 2025, top Trump administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, have walked back elements of President Trump’s proposal, stating that he has not committed to using U.S. troops or funds to take control of Gaza. However, the proposal continues to face opposition from key American partners and officials around the world, with many expressing support for a Palestinian state and experts denouncing the idea as a breach of international law.
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