Israel Launches Initiative to Facilitate Voluntary Migration of Palestinians from Gaza

In a significant move, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Monday the formation of a new body within the ministry aimed at coordinating and assisting Palestinians who wish to voluntarily leave Gaza for third-party countries. The initiative comes after former US President Donald Trump expressed a desire to turn Gaza into a resort strip, envisioning the departure of its Palestinian population.

This plan, supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Katz, marks a shift from prior discussions, which primarily focused on Egypt, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others playing a role in managing Gaza while maintaining the Palestinian population there. However, with Trump's announcement, Netanyahu and Katz have shown willingness to facilitate the voluntary migration of Palestinians who may wish to leave.

Despite the proposal gaining traction in certain political circles, it has faced considerable opposition. Egypt and Jordan, the two primary countries Trump envisioned for resettling Gaza’s population, have both firmly rejected the plan. Additionally, official Palestinian spokespeople have also voiced strong disapproval of the idea.

Israel, under Katz's direction, will offer support for those who wish to leave Gaza, providing logistical assistance through land, air, and sea transport options. This initiative, which Katz chaired a meeting for, includes key Israeli officials, such as COGAT Head Maj. Gen. Rasan Elian and PMO Military Secretary Maj. Gen. Roman Gofman. However, it is noteworthy that high-ranking IDF officials like incoming IDF Chief Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir and IDF Intelligence Chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder were not present at the meeting, raising questions about the initiative's broader military involvement.

While the prospect of Palestinians voluntarily leaving Gaza remains uncertain, experts suggest that a small minority may consider it, with Israel prepared to facilitate their departure should that scenario unfold.