Jerusalem: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the army to devise a plan for the “voluntary departure” of residents from the Gaza Strip, according to reports from Israeli media on Thursday.
The directive follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s surprise proposal to take control of Gaza, resettle its Palestinian residents, and transform the area into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
“I welcome President Trump’s bold plan, Gaza residents should be allowed the freedom to leave and emigrate, as is the norm around the world,” Katz was quoted as saying by Israel’s Channel 12.
When asked about which countries would accept the Palestinians, Katz suggested that nations critical of Israel’s military actions in Gaza should bear the responsibility.
“Countries like Spain, Ireland, Norway, and others, which have levelled accusations and false claims against Israel over its actions in Gaza, are legally obligated to allow any Gaza resident to enter their territories,” Katz said.
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The plan outlined by Katz includes provisions for exit via land crossings and special arrangements for departures by sea and air, as reported by Channel 12.
Trump’s Gaza proposal sparked international criticism on Wednesday, with Russia, China, and Germany condemning the plan, arguing it would lead to “new suffering and new hatred.”
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Saudi Arabia firmly rejected the proposal, and Jordan’s King Abdullah, who is set to meet with Trump at the White House next week, stated that he opposed any efforts to annex land or displace Palestinians.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s plan, calling it “remarkable” and suggesting that it should be explored further, though he did not elaborate on the specifics of what Trump was offering.
