In response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent proposal to assume control over the Gaza Strip and redevelop it into the "Riviera of the Middle East," Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has directed the military to prepare plans facilitating the voluntary departure of Gaza's approximately two million Palestinian residents. The proposed plans include options for exit by land, sea, and air.
This initiative has sparked significant international concern and criticism. Countries such as Egypt, Spain, Ireland, and Norway have expressed strong objections, emphasizing the potential for regional destabilization and the violation of international laws against forced displacement. Human Rights Watch has condemned the proposal, warning that it could amount to "ethnic cleansing."
Egypt, in particular, is actively lobbying against the plan, arguing that relocating Palestinians to the Sinai Peninsula would endanger its peace treaty with Israel and destabilize the region. The Egyptian government insists on the creation of a Palestinian state that includes Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, and has communicated its strong opposition to the U.S., Israel, and European allies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the U.S. proposal, suggesting that allowing Gazans to leave temporarily could lead to a different future for everyone. However, he did not explicitly discuss the plan in detail during a recent interview.
The situation remains complex, with mounting international opposition and concerns about the humanitarian implications for the residents of Gaza. The World Health Organization has highlighted a severe health crisis in the region, noting that many medical facilities are non-functional and emphasizing the urgent need for medical evacuations.
As developments unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the actions of the involved parties and the potential impact on regional stability and the well-being of the Palestinian population.
For more detailed coverage, you can refer to the following articles:
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Israel tells army to prepare plans for Palestinians to voluntarily leave Gaza
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Netanyahu praises Trump plan to move Palestinians out of Gaza