Israel Defense Minister Prepares Plan for Voluntary Gaza Relocation Amid Trump’s Proposal

Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has directed the IDF to prepare a comprehensive plan to facilitate the voluntary relocation of Gaza residents. The plan will include multiple exit options, such as land crossings, and special provisions for sea and air departures. Katz expressed his support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proposal, which suggests the relocation of Gaza residents as part of a broader initiative to rebuild the area.

In his statement, Katz emphasized the role of Hamas in using Gazans as human shields and restricting their freedom of movement. He argued that residents of Gaza should be allowed the opportunity to leave, in line with the principle that all people around the world should have the freedom to emigrate if they so wish.

Katz also called attention to the legal responsibility of various countries, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway, to accept Gaza residents, particularly those who have been subject to false accusations against Israel. He noted that Canada had previously expressed a willingness to accept Gaza residents, pointing to their structured immigration programs.

Trump's Plan and International Support

President Trump’s plan for Gaza, which he discussed in a recent interview, involves relocating Gaza’s residents to new territories, including Morocco, Puntland, and Somaliland. These areas are under consideration due to their geopolitical needs, with both Puntland and Somaliland seeking international recognition, while Morocco is engaged in a territorial dispute over Western Sahara. Trump’s administration has been working to garner support from Jordan and Egypt to allow Gaza residents to relocate, asserting that these countries would not refuse such a move.

Trump has reiterated his desire to provide Gaza residents with a fresh start, saying the existing situation in Gaza "has never worked" and suggesting that relocation to new territories would offer a "beautiful" and "habitable" environment for the displaced individuals.