The ideal of remaining on one’s land despite threats of expulsion is at the heart of the Palestinians’ struggle and self-identity, and was on vivid display last week when hundreds of thousands returned to northern Gaza despite its near-total destruction.

Former MSNBC host Chris Matthews expressed shock and awe at Donald Trump's comment Tuesday during a press conference with Israeli PM Netanyahu that the U.S. might just take ownership of the Gaza Strip.

The plan, as expressed by Donald Trump, is not going to happen. It requires the co-operation of Arab states that have rejected it. They include Jordan and Egypt, countries that Trump wants to take in Gaza's Palestinians - and Saudi Arabia, which might be expected to foot the bill. Western allies of the US and Israel are also against the idea.