Jewish leaders and activists in the United States are speaking out against President Trump’s controversial proposal to “take over” Gaza, which they view as a form of ethnic cleansing against millions of Palestinians.

By Francesca Merlo

A full-page ad in the New York Times signed by 350 rabbis and Jewish public figures has sent a powerful message: “Jewish people say NO to ethnic cleansing!”

President Trump’s plan to forcibly remove the inhabitants of Gaza has sparked outrage and comparisons to the 1948 Nakba, a dark period in Palestinian history when hundreds of thousands were displaced from their homes.

The Importance of Standing Up

The ad in the New York Times highlights the voices of prominent figures such as Rabbis Sharon Brous, Roly Matalon, and Alissa Wise, as well as well-known Jewish creatives and activists like Tony Kushner, Ilana Glazer, Naomi Klein, and Joaquin Phoenix.

Ethical and Legal Concerns

Rabbi David Rosen, a respected figure in interfaith affairs, emphasized the moral and ethical implications of President Trump’s proposal. He stressed that forced displacement goes against international law and basic human decency.

Pushback Against Trump’s Vision

President Trump’s vision of turning Gaza into a real estate project has been met with strong opposition from Jewish leaders who view it as a violation of human rights and an affront to basic dignity.

Progressive advocacy groups like J Street and the Rabbinical Assembly have joined the chorus of voices condemning the proposal, emphasizing the need to uphold Jewish values and international law.

The advertisement was funded by progressive donors associated with the “In Our Name Campaign,” a movement that seeks to support Palestinian-led initiatives for safety, dignity, and self-determination in Palestine.