Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his support for US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal regarding Gaza, which includes plans for a potential evacuation of Palestinians from the territory. During this discussion, the Israeli military has been instructed to prepare for the possibility of large numbers of residents leaving Gaza.
Trump’s plan has sparked significant criticism, with leaders from across the Middle East and elsewhere denouncing it as impractical and illegal. Despite the backlash, Netanyahu described the proposal as a “remarkable idea” during an interview with Fox News. He emphasized the possibility of allowing Gazans who wish to leave to do so, assuring that they could return afterward.
Netanyahu’s endorsement came after a joint announcement with Trump at the White House, which ignited widespread condemnation from human rights organizations that argue the plan could violate international law and resemble ethnic cleansing. Moreover, Western allies and Middle Eastern leaders, including Gazan officials, have opposed the notion of displacing Gaza’s population.
Qatar’s foreign ministry reiterated that Arab nations intend to rebuild Gaza with Palestinians remaining in the area. Meanwhile, Jordan’s King Abdullah has expressed firm opposition to the plan during his diplomatic visit to the UK and the U.S.
The ongoing conflict has devastated much of Gaza, particularly following the military attacks initiated by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The notion of forcibly removing Palestinians from their homes contradicts decades of U.S. foreign policy advocating for a two-state solution.
Amidst the growing concerns, White House staff are working to clarify aspects of the plan after critics warned it could lead to increased U.S. military involvement in the region. Some Republican lawmakers reported confusion during a closed-door meeting regarding the plan’s details.
In a follow-up statement, Trump indicated that Gaza could be transferred to U.S. control following the conflict, asserting that no American troops would be necessary but providing little further information on the implementation of the plan.
On Thursday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the Israel Defense Forces to prepare for a framework to facilitate the “voluntary departure” of Gaza residents. Katz welcomed Trump’s proposal, which he believes could allow a significant portion of Gaza’s population to relocate internationally, while mentioning that the plan would require many years to achieve.
Despite the Israeli government’s perspective, many Palestinians firmly oppose the relocation, emphasizing their right to remain in their homeland. Humanitarian concerns are mounting as reports indicate that many Gaza residents have already faced multiple displacements during the ongoing conflict.
Analyzing the potential success of Trump’s proposal, experts express skepticism regarding its feasibility given the complex political realities. Meanwhile, Netanyahu remains focused on dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities, reiterating the Israeli commitment to continue operations until security is restored.
Negotiations concerning a ceasefire extension and hostage releases in Gaza face uncertainty, with Netanyahu wary of further troop withdrawal conditions tied to the ongoing situation.
Credit: CNN
