New Delhi, January 30, 2026 : Palestine has cautiously welcomed US President Donald Trump’s proposal to transform the Gaza Strip into a Mediterranean “Riviera,” asserting that any such initiative must primarily benefit Palestinians and not be imposed at their expense, Palestinian Foreign Minister of State Varsen Aghabekian Shahin said on Friday.
Speaking in an interview on the sidelines of the India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, Shahin said development plans for Gaza are acceptable only if they serve Gazans themselves. “A Riviera for its people—why not? If it’s for Gazans to enjoy, yes. But not for others without Palestinians,” she said.
Shahin stressed that Gaza’s reconstruction cannot be detached from Palestinian political rights and a credible path toward statehood. While welcoming peace initiatives, including Trump’s proposed ‘Board of Peace’, she said any framework must lead to a clearly defined outcome—Palestinian independence in line with international law.
On India’s potential participation in the Peace Board, Shahin said New Delhi could play a constructive role, given its balanced ties with both Israel and Palestine, provided the peace process has clarity on goals and outcomes. She reiterated appreciation for India’s consistent support for a two-state solution.
Addressing concerns over Gaza’s fragile ceasefire, Shahin warned that only a permanent and sustainable ceasefire would allow meaningful reconstruction, which would require sustained international support. She also cautioned that escalating US–Iran tensions could destabilise the region and undermine Gaza’s calm.
On the West Bank, Shahin said conditions were deteriorating, alleging daily violence by illegal settlers and describing the situation as a violation of international law. She also said Hamas should disarm as part of an agreed peace framework.
Asked about Pakistan’s inclusion in the Peace Board, which Israel opposes, Shahin said no country should dictate the process. “What is acceptable is what aligns with international law,” she said.
Shahin concluded by noting that there remains hope President Trump could advance peace—if Palestinian rights are respected. “Peace means respecting both peoples. Palestinians deserve their state. Now is the time to help make it a reality,” she said.
