When President Donald Trump made his bold claim about taking control of the Gaza Strip and transforming it into the “Riviera of the Middle East,” it set off a wave of confusion and concern among a significant group of voters who had recently thrown their support behind him: Arab American voters, many of whom had never supported a Republican candidate before.
In Dearborn, Michigan—a city with a heavy Arab American population—longtime Democratic voters who switched to Trump in the 2024 election now find themselves questioning their decision. Trump’s recent remarks on Gaza have struck a nerve, with many feeling betrayed by his stance. These voters, who once hoped that Trump could broker peace in the Middle East, are now grappling with the realization that his policies may be more aligned with Israel’s interests than the promises he made to their communities.
The Fallout of Trump’s Gaza Plan
For Lebanese American retirees like Ali Hammoud, Trump’s Gaza plan was deeply troubling. Hammoud, a 77-year-old man who had voted for Trump in the 2024 election, expressed his disbelief at the idea of forcing Palestinians out of Gaza. “It’s impossible,” Hammoud said. “Instead of helping them rebuild their country, he wants to make it a ‘Riviera’ and kick them out.” His frustration is shared by many in the community who were led to believe Trump would be a more peace-driven alternative to Joe Biden.
Despite their concerns, Hammoud—like others—still finds some things to like about Trump. “I still do like him, in a way. He is good to America. But as for Middle East policy, he’s lousy,” Hammoud admitted.
This sentiment is not unique. Across Dearborn and surrounding areas, many of those who supported Trump for the first time in 2024 are now re-evaluating their decision. Many of these voters were frustrated by Biden’s ongoing support for Israel, and Trump seemed to promise an end to prolonged conflicts and a more balanced approach. But now, his Gaza proposal has left many wondering whether they were misled.
Divided Opinions on Trump’s Gaza Proposal
Some Arab Americans are holding onto hope, believing Trump’s comments were simply a tactical move or an exaggeration aimed at getting the attention of Israel and Hamas. They argue that his words should not be taken literally, hoping that he will distance himself from the idea as the election approaches.
Others, however, feel that Trump has broken the trust he had built with them. Sam Hasshem, an 85-year-old Democrat turned Trump supporter, is one of these disillusioned voters. “I don’t like him,” Hasshem said, his rosary beads sliding through his fingers. “He talked nice before he went in. Everybody said he makes peace, wants no more war. But he’s a liar.”
For some, like Faye Nemer, the issue goes beyond Gaza. Nemer, the CEO of the MENA American Chamber of Commerce, helped organize meetings with both Biden and Trump’s campaign teams. She believed that Trump was someone who could bring change, particularly to the Middle East. But now, her confidence is shaken. “It’s like saying ‘uproot the 2.9 million people in Kyiv, Ukraine, just because there’s destruction there,’” Nemer remarked, pointing out the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians.
The Key Issue: A Path to Peace?
What many in the Arab American community hoped for was a path to peace based on respect for Palestinian sovereignty. However, Trump’s comments suggest an alternative vision that could alienate millions of Palestinians and their allies. For many in the community, peace isn’t about simply removing people from their homeland—it’s about finding a just solution that respects the rights of Palestinians.
Faye Nemer’s story is a poignant reminder that the Arab American community’s view of peace is closely tied to the future of Palestine. She questions why Trump, who once seemed to align with their values, would consider such a drastic and controversial plan for Gaza. “If they continue down this path, it’ll come back to haunt them during the upcoming election cycle,” she warned.
What’s at Stake for Trump?
Trump’s appeal to Arab Americans has been rooted in his promises of a balanced foreign policy and his claims of wanting peace. But his latest remarks could unravel much of that support, particularly in Michigan, a swing state that proved crucial in his 2024 victory. Trump’s ability to maintain his newly acquired Arab American base could have significant consequences for the 2025 elections.
Albert Abbas, a Lebanese-American businessman in Dearborn, believes that Trump’s recent remarks were ill-timed and insensitive. He points to Trump’s recent actions—such as receiving a golden pager trophy from Netanyahu as proof of his support for Israel—and says that it’s difficult to reconcile these actions with the promises Trump made during the election.
Abbas remains cautiously optimistic, stating, “There’s plenty of time to correct it.” However, as the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, time may be running out for Trump to salvage the support he garnered from the Arab American community.
A Shift in the Political Landscape
For voters like Samer Ibrahim, who abstained from voting in the 2024 election, Trump’s actions only reinforce his belief that both major political parties have failed to address the needs and concerns of the Arab American community. “I don’t want women in my boys’ locker room,” Ibrahim said, referencing the heated debate over transgender athletes. His comments highlight the cultural concerns that many Arab Americans feel are being overlooked by both Democrats and Republicans.
The debate over Gaza and Trump’s policy decisions could shift the political allegiance of Arab Americans once again. As Sam Baydoun, a Wayne County commissioner, points out, while Trump has alienated some voters, many in the community still don’t see Biden as an ideal alternative. Joe Biden’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict has left many wondering if he’s truly committed to peace in the region.
Conclusion: The Path Forward for Trump and Arab American Voters
Trump’s stance on Gaza has undoubtedly complicated his relationship with Arab American voters. Whether or not he can recover and keep their support will depend on his future actions and how he addresses the issues of peace, sovereignty, and respect for Palestinians. As the 2025 elections approach, the choices Trump makes regarding foreign policy and the Middle East will have far-reaching consequences—not just for his political future, but for the future of Arab American engagement in American politics.
Relevant links for further reading:
- Trump Gaza Proposal
- MENA American Chamber of Commerce
- Gaza Conflict Overview
- Arab American Voting Patterns
Photo credit: NEWS10 ABC
