LONDON (AP) — Pro-Palestinian activists have taken direct action against U.S. President Donald Trump's golf resort in Scotland, targeting his Turnberry golf course in response to his controversial proposal regarding the Gaza Strip. The activists claimed responsibility for vandalizing the property, leaving messages such as "Gaza Is Not For Sale" painted in large letters across the lawn and spraying red paint on the exterior walls of the clubhouse.

The activist group Palestine Action criticized Trump's approach to the Gaza situation, asserting that he treats the territory as if it were his personal property to control. In their statement, they aimed to emphasize that Trump's own property was not immune to acts of resistance against his views and policies.

Police Scotland confirmed that they received reports of the damage early Saturday morning and that they are currently investigating the incident. The vandalism occurs amidst heightened tension regarding the future of Gaza, as a ceasefire concluded without a clear understanding of subsequent steps, particularly after 15 months of conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Trump's controversial proposition suggests the resettlement of Gaza's population to enable the United States to take control of the region and potentially develop it for other purposes. This suggestion has faced widespread rejection from Palestinians, who oppose any calls for displacement from their homeland.

The Turnberry golf course, located in southwest Scotland, is recognized as one of the ten venues authorized to host the British Open, which is the oldest of the four major championships in men's golf. However, since Trump acquired the resort in 2014 and undertook renovations, the venue has not hosted the British Open. In November, Martin Slumbers, then-chief executive of the R&A, which organizes the British Open, indicated that there were no immediate plans to return the event to Turnberry.

This act of vandalism reflects ongoing global tensions linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and illustrates how political sentiments can impact even sports venues. The actions taken by the activists highlight their commitment to protesting against perceived injustices and raising awareness of the plight of Palestinians amidst the current geopolitical landscape.