Mass displacement has long been a consequence of war, with governments and international organizations grappling with how to manage affected populations.
As the war in Gaza continues to reshape the region, Israel is moving forward with plans that could significantly impact the future of the territory’s residents.
Israel Establishes Relocation Agency
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the creation of a special agency to oversee the "voluntary departure" of Palestinians from Gaza.
According to a statement from the Defense Ministry, the agency will operate under government supervision and provide logistical support for those who choose to leave. The initiative includes assistance for relocation to third countries via land, sea, and air routes.
As reported by Digi24, this move follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s commitment to aligning with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s postwar vision for Gaza. Netanyahu has stated that neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will have control over the territory after the conflict.
Trump’s Controversial Plan for Gaza
Earlier this month, Trump proposed a U.S.-led reconstruction effort for Gaza, envisioning it as the "French Riviera of the Middle East."
He also suggested that residents could be relocated to Egypt or Jordan—an idea firmly rejected by both countries, as well as by leaders across the Arab world.
Israeli officials have expressed support for elements of Trump’s proposal, with Katz previously calling it a "bold plan" that could enable large-scale resettlement of Gaza’s population worldwide.
Uncertain Future for Gaza’s Residents
The war, which began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas-led attack on Israel, has left much of Gaza in ruins. While a ceasefire has been in place since January 19, the humanitarian situation remains dire, and the prospect of mass displacement has sparked international concern.
With no clear agreement on who will govern Gaza after the war, Israel’s latest move raises questions about the long-term future of the enclave’s population and the feasibility of large-scale relocation efforts.
