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 answer is that Trump's remarks, however outlandish, will have consequences. He is the president of the United States, the most powerful man in the world - no longer a reality TV host and political hopeful trying to grab headlines.