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//Israel Backs Trump’s Gaza Plan as Military Prepares for Palestinian Exodus//

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump meet at the White House on February 4, 2025. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has endorsed U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to assume control over Gaza, a proposal that has ignited global criticism. Meanwhile, Israel’s military has been instructed to prepare for a mass departure of Palestinians from the war-ravaged enclave.

Netanyahu Supports Trump’s Proposal

Trump’s plan, unveiled during a joint press conference with Netanyahu at the White House on February 4, 2025, suggests relocating Gaza’s residents to neighboring countries while maintaining Israeli control over the territory. The initiative was met with immediate condemnation from Middle Eastern leaders and human rights organizations, which denounced it as both impractical and illegal.

However, Netanyahu has praised the proposal, calling it a “remarkable idea.” In an interview with Fox News, he questioned why people should oppose allowing Gazans to leave voluntarily. He also suggested that those who depart could potentially return in the future, though he did not elaborate on how that process would work.

International Backlash and Regional Reactions

The announcement has intensified diplomatic tensions. Western allies of the U.S. have distanced themselves from the plan, while Middle Eastern leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to Palestinian statehood. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al Ansari, emphasized that Arab nations are focused on rebuilding Gaza with its residents remaining in place. Meanwhile, Jordan’s King Abdullah has embarked on diplomatic visits to the U.K. and the U.S., reiterating his country’s firm opposition to forced displacement.

Gaza has suffered extensive devastation following 15 months of Israeli military operations launched in response to Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attacks. The scale of destruction has left much of the enclave in ruins, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

White House Attempts to Clarify

Trump’s plan has raised concerns about a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, which has historically supported a two-state solution. White House officials have since attempted to soften aspects of the proposal, stressing that no U.S. troops would be deployed to enforce the initiative.

During a closed-door meeting, Republican lawmakers sought clarification from Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. According to sources, the discussion revealed internal confusion, with some administration officials unaware of the plan before its public announcement.

On February 6, Trump reiterated his stance via Truth Social, claiming that Gaza would be handed over to the U.S. after the conflict’s conclusion. However, he provided no concrete details on how this transition would be executed.

Israeli Military Ordered to Prepare for Departures

Following Trump’s remarks, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz directed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to develop a strategy for the voluntary relocation of Gaza’s population. Katz welcomed Trump’s initiative, suggesting that Palestinians could be resettled in various countries worldwide over a span of years. He further asserted that nations such as Spain, Ireland, and Norway— which have criticized Israel’s military actions—should be obligated to accept Gazan refugees.

The feasibility of this plan remains highly uncertain. Analysts argue that most of Gaza’s two million residents will resist leaving, raising concerns over potential forced displacement, which would violate international law. “This is our land, and we are the rightful owners,” Amir Karaja, a Gaza resident, told CNN. “No one can force us out.”

The Future of Gaza and Ongoing Conflict

Despite the prolonged military campaign, Hamas continues to exhibit resilience. Former U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently noted that each time Israel has withdrawn from Gaza following military operations, Hamas has managed to regroup and rebuild.

The future of Gaza remains uncertain, particularly as negotiations continue over an extended ceasefire and the fate of Israeli hostages. Netanyahu has emphasized that his government is committed to retrieving all captives held by Hamas. However, internal divisions persist, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich threatening to resign if the ceasefire negotiations lead to a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

As diplomatic pressure mounts and the humanitarian crisis deepens, the world watches closely to see how Israel, the U.S., and regional powers will navigate the next phase of the conflict.