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The development followed Trump’s shock announcement that the US plans to take over Gaza
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. (Photo: Reuters)
Drawing inspiration from US President Donald Trump’s relocation vision, Defence Minister Israel Katz has instructed the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to develop a plan that would allow Gazans to voluntarily leave the Gaza Strip, according to Katz’s office.
“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,” Katz wrote on X on Thursday.
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
The directive followed President Trump’s unexpected announcement that the United States plans to take control of Gaza, resettle its Palestinian inhabitants, and turn the region into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
“I support President Trump’s bold plan. Gaza’s residents should be granted the freedom to leave and emigrate, as is the standard practice worldwide,” Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz was quoted as saying by Israel’s Channel 12.
When asked which countries should accept the Palestinians, Katz suggested that it should be nations that have criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza. “Countries like Spain, Ireland, Norway, and others, who have leveled accusations and made false claims against Israel’s operations, are legally bound to allow Gaza residents to enter their countries,” he said. “Their hypocrisy will be exposed if they refuse to do so. Countries like Canada, which has a structured immigration program, have already expressed willingness to accept Gaza residents.”
Trump’s controversial plan has sparked significant backlash across the Middle East. This comes as Israel and the militant group Hamas are expected to begin discussions on the second phase of a fragile ceasefire agreement to end nearly 16 months of conflict in Gaza.
Katz’s proposal would offer exit options through land crossings, as well as special provisions for departure via sea and air, according to Channel 12.