IDF Ordered to Develop Plan for Voluntary Arab Departure from Gaza

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the Israel Defense Forces to draft a plan enabling Palestinians in Gaza to voluntarily leave the territory. The plan, he stated, will include exit options via land crossings as well as special arrangements for departures by sea and air.

Katz’s announcement follows former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal that Gazans be relocated to other countries, including Egypt and Jordan. “The residents of Gaza should be allowed to enjoy the freedom of exit and migration as is customary everywhere in the world,” Katz said, adding that Hamas is currently preventing their departure and exploiting them for financial gain.

The Israeli minister also challenged European nations that have criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway. He suggested they accept Gazan migrants if they truly stand by their humanitarian claims. “Their hypocrisy will be exposed if they refuse to do so,” he asserted. Katz also pointed out that Canada, which has a regulated immigration program, has previously expressed willingness to absorb Gazans.

Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares swiftly rejected the idea, insisting that Gaza must remain part of a future Palestinian state.

Trump, meanwhile, reiterated his stance that Gaza should be evacuated and its people resettled elsewhere. “You build really good quality housing, like a beautiful town, like someplace where they can live and not die,” he told reporters in Washington, D.C. His comments followed an earlier statement in which he described Gaza as “literally a demolition site.”

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich responded positively to Trump’s remarks, quoting Psalms 126:3 and expressing gratitude to the former president. “Together, we will make the world great again,” he wrote in English, accompanied by American and Israeli flag emojis.

As Israel continues its military operations against Hamas, the debate over Gaza’s future intensifies. The coming weeks may reveal whether international actors are willing to support voluntary migration efforts or if the issue remains purely theoretical. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates and stay informed on developments in the region.