Israel Prepares for Mass Palestinian Exodus Following Trump’s Controversial Proposal

TDT | Manama

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Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has directed the military to formulate plans facilitating the departure of large numbers of Palestinians from the war-torn Gaza Strip, aligning with a proposal put forward by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Katz announced on Thursday that the plan would include “options for exit at land crossings as well as special arrangements for exit by sea and air.” He praised Trump’s initiative, calling it a “bold plan” that could enable a significant portion of Gaza’s population to relocate to different parts of the world.

The defense minister did not specify whether Palestinians who leave would have the right to return to Gaza, which has been left largely uninhabitable after 15 months of Israeli military operations against Hamas.

Trump unveiled his proposal on Wednesday, suggesting that most of Gaza’s residents be “permanently” resettled elsewhere while the United States undertakes efforts to rebuild the devastated enclave. However, U.S. officials later clarified that any relocations would be temporary. Despite this, Palestinians have expressed deep concerns that they may never be allowed to return, exacerbating a refugee crisis that dates back to Israel’s establishment in 1948.

The proposal has faced strong opposition from Palestinians and the broader international community. Human rights organizations have condemned the plan, warning that it could constitute forced displacement, a violation of international law.