Turnberry golf resort in Scotland vandalised in protest against Trump’s Gaza remarks

US President Donald Trump‘s Turnberry golf resort in Scotland has been vandalised by activists protesting against his administration’s stance on Gaza. The protesters sprayed the phrase “GAZA IS NOT 4 SALE” in large white letters across the resort’s lawn and splattered blood-red paint over the clubhouse. Reports indicate that sections of the course’s greens were also damaged in the incident, which took place overnight on Saturday.

The activist group Palestine Action claimed responsibility, stating that the act was a direct response to Trump’s rhetoric on Gaza, particularly his recent comments suggesting that the Palestinian territory could be transformed into a luxury tourist destination. The group accused the US administration of advocating for what they called the “ethnic cleansing of Gaza”, referring to Trump’s remarks about relocating Palestinian residents to Egypt or Jordan.

Trump’s Gaza Comments Spark Global Outrage

The attack on Trump Turnberry follows a wave of backlash over the president’s recent statements regarding the future of Gaza. Last month, Trump suggested that the United States should “take over” the war-ravaged region and redevelop it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” His proposal included the forced relocation of Gaza’s Palestinian population to neighbouring countries.

Further outrage was sparked last week after an AI-generated video circulated online, portraying Gaza as a future Trump-branded luxury resort. The video, which Trump shared on social media, depicted a beachfront paradise with modern high-rises and exclusive leisure facilities. One scene in particular gained traction, showing Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lounging in swimsuits by a pool, sipping cocktails.

Activists seized on the video as evidence of Trump’s indifference to Palestinian suffering. In a statement posted online, Palestine Action declared that “whilst Trump attempts to treat Gaza as his property, he should know his own property is within reach.”

Police Investigate as Trump Turnberry Condemns Attack

Scottish authorities have launched an investigation into the vandalism at Trump Turnberry. Police Scotland confirmed that officers were called to the scene at approximately 0440 GMT on Saturday following reports of property damage. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and assessing the extent of the damage to the resort.

A Trump Turnberry spokesperson dismissed the act as a “childish, criminal attack,” insisting that it would not affect the resort’s business operations. “Turnberry is a national treasure and will continue to be the number one beacon of luxury and excellence in the world of golf,” the statement added.

US-Israel Relations Under Scrutiny Amid Arms Sale

The controversy surrounding Trump’s comments on Gaza coincides with rising global criticism of US support for Israel‘s ongoing military operations. Last week, the United States approved a $3 billion arms deal with Israel, which includes munitions, bulldozers, and related military equipment. The decision has drawn condemnation from international human rights groups, who argue that American-made weapons are being used to devastating effect in Gaza.

The sale is the latest in a series of arms agreements between Washington and Tel Aviv, reinforcing the Biden and Trump administrations’ long-standing bipartisan support for Israel. However, the latest deal has deepened divisions both domestically and abroad, with protests erupting in several cities against continued US military aid to Israel.

Trump Turnberry: A Luxury Resort Under Scrutiny

Trump Turnberry, located in southwest Scotland, is one of two golf resorts owned by the US president in the country, which is also home to his mother’s ancestral roots. The historic course, known for hosting multiple Open Championships, has been a flagship of Trump’s global business empire.

However, the property has faced financial difficulties in recent years, with reports indicating that it has struggled to turn a profit. The resort’s association with Trump has also made it a frequent target for protests, particularly in response to his political actions.

Investor Reactions to Trump Turnberry Incident

The vandalism at Trump Turnberry has raised concerns about the potential financial implications for the president’s business empire. Investors and analysts are closely monitoring whether the controversy will impact the resort’s bookings or long-term brand reputation, particularly given the politically charged nature of the incident.

While Trump’s properties have weathered multiple controversies in the past, the latest backlash could pose new challenges, especially as global tensions over Gaza continue to escalate. The damage to the resort could also result in costly repairs, though it remains unclear whether the incident will affect future bookings or deter visitors.

For now, Trump Turnberry remains open, with staff reportedly working to restore the course and remove the vandalism. However, the wider debate surrounding Trump’s vision for Gaza is unlikely to fade anytime soon.