Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Palestinians must leave Gaza for a solution, claiming 80% of Gazans are interested in migrating. He said Israel is prepared to facilitate this movement by sea, air, or any other means, but noted that Egypt is unwilling to participate.
The statements by Israel's Defense Minister suggest a potential policy shift regarding the Palestinian population in Gaza, raising significant international concern and humanitarian implications.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on Wednesday that a solution for Gaza necessitates the migration of its Palestinian population. He told journalists at a conference that "there is no real solution for Gaza in the end without migration." Katz claimed that surveys indicate approximately 80 percent of Gazans are interested in leaving the enclave, citing Hamas's alleged obstruction and a lack of willing host countries.
Katz asserted that Israel is prepared to facilitate this movement by sea, air, or any other means, but noted that Egypt is unwilling to participate. He suggested that potential accepting countries require US support, and that President Trump had previously frozen, but not cancelled, such plans. The Israeli minister also mentioned that the plan to encourage Palestinians to leave Gaza has reportedly been renamed from "voluntary migration" to "Freedom of Movement Plan" following international criticism.
According to reports, Israeli security officials and Mossad have struggled to find any country willing to accept displaced Palestinians. Katz also indicated that Israel is preparing for a potential Iranian attack during the upcoming Jewish holiday period and is ready to respond forcefully if targeted.