Israel prepares for potential Palestinian relocation amid Trump’s Gaza proposal

Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has directed the military to prepare options for Palestinians wishing to leave Gaza after Donald Trump proposed the U.S. take control of the territory and resettle its residents in other countries.

The announcement comes in the wake of Trump’s comments, which included the suggestion that Egypt could be a potential destination for Palestinians.

Why it matters

The proposal has ignited diplomatic tensions, particularly with Egypt, which has strongly opposed the idea. The situation has also prompted diverse reactions within Israel, with some political leaders in support of the plan, while others express concern over its potential consequences. Additionally, the international community has raised alarms over the implications for Palestinian rights and the legality of forced displacement.

I have instructed the IDF to prepare a plan that will allow any resident of Gaza who wishes to leave to do so, to any country willing to receive them.

Hamas has used the residents of Gaza as human shields, built its terror infrastructure in the heart of the civilian population,…

— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) February 6, 2025

Details

• Israel’s Defence Minister instructed the military to prepare air, sea, and land options for Palestinians to exit Gaza.
• While no countries have offered to host Palestinians, the proposal includes plans for relocation following the cessation of fighting.
• The plan is seen as more political than practical due to the lack of international cooperation on hosting displaced individuals.
• Public opinion in Israel largely supports Trump’s call for relocation, though only half of the population believes the proposal is feasible.
• Egypt launched a diplomatic campaign to block the plan, warning that it could jeopardize its peace agreement with Israel.
• The United Nations and various international bodies have raised concerns about the potential for ethnic cleansing and the violation of human rights laws.

Reactions

Israeli political reactions have ranged widely. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called Trump’s suggestion “good for the state of Israel,” while former Defence Minister Benny Gantz stated that Israel had “nothing to lose” from the proposal. However, some far-left Israeli politicians, relatives of hostages in Gaza, and activists have voiced strong opposition. They argue that the plan could derail the ongoing ceasefire talks and raise significant ethical concerns.