Chris Van Hollen condemns Trump’s Gaza ethnic cleansing remarks

On February 23, 2025, Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland appeared on CBS's 'Face the Nation' where he discussed the ongoing conflict and humanitarian issues in Gaza. Van Hollen expressed his concerns regarding Trump's foreign policy assertions that suggested a reconstruction of Gaza could not be accomplished without displacing the current Palestinian population. He criticized this narrative as not only morally reprehensible but also as a form of ethnic cleansing that would destabilize the region. The senator highlighted the efforts of Arab countries working on plans that would ensure governance, security, and reconstruction in Gaza, advocating for an approach that does not involve forcibly removing the population. During the interview, Van Hollen linked the dangerous implications of Trump's rhetoric to the rise of far-right Israeli politicians, who see the potential displacement of the Palestinian population as a victory. He underscored the importance of a just solution for both Israelis and Palestinians, noting that Arab nations are developing strategies to manage reconstruction while maintaining stability in the area. Van Hollen stressed that the international community, including U.S. allies, should remain vigilant against narratives that could lead to further conflict, and he argued against negotiating with leaders like Putin from a position of retreat. Moreover, in discussing the broader implications of the U.S. foreign policy, Van Hollen warned that the perception of the U.S. withdrawing from its international commitments sends a dangerous signal to adversaries like China and Russia. He indicated that the current administration's stance could embolden these nations while leaving allies disillusioned. Overall, Van Hollen called for a more principled and consistent U.S. foreign policy that reinforces democratic values rather than capitulating to harmful narratives. The senator's comments echo growing concerns among many in the political sphere regarding the effectiveness and morality of current U.S. engagement in global affairs, especially in regions experiencing conflict and humanitarian crises. He argued that a failure to address these challenges realistically and ethically could contribute to long-term instability in the Middle East and beyond.