Israel Approves Department to Facilitate “Voluntary” Palestinian Departure from Gaza
Defense Ministry to coordinate international efforts for relocation, citing Trump’s regional vision as framework.
Watan-The Israeli Security and Political Cabinet (the Cabinet) approved on Saturday evening a proposal by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (note: incorrectly listed as Yisrael Katz in the original, unless there’s a recent change) to establish a new department within the Ministry of Defense aimed at organizing and facilitating the “voluntary” departure of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to third countries. The decision is presented as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision.
According to a statement from the Defense Minister’s Office, the new department will work to secure safe routes for those who wish to leave Gaza, while ensuring coordination with international organizations and relevant entities. The plan includes establishing travel and screening procedures at specific crossings, and organizing land, sea, and air transportation.
In his comments on the decision, Katz emphasized that this step aligns with the implementation of Trump’s vision, adding that any Palestinian who wishes to leave Gaza for a third country will be able to do so.
It’s worth noting that Trump’s plan to relocate Palestinians out of Gaza has been met with opposition from several countries and international organizations. In contrast, Egypt—backed by Arab states—has proposed an alternative plan focused on reconstruction without displacement of the population.
