Israel ready to remove Gaza population if US gives approval: defence minister

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz has revealed that the country is prepared to relocate the entire population of Gaza, pending approval from the United States. Speaking at a conference, Katz stated that there is no viable solution for Gaza without mass migration of its inhabitants. The Israeli government is fully equipped to carry out the removal of the populace via sea, air, or any other means feasible, Katz added.

The US embassy in Israel has directed inquiries regarding this matter to the State Department in Washington. Upon assuming office, US President Donald Trump proposed the removal of all 2 million Palestinians from Gaza, envisioning the territory's transformation into a luxury resort. However, this idea was swiftly dismissed by international criticism, including from Egypt, and later by Trump himself, who insisted that the proposal was only a temporary measure pending suitable countries to receive the refugees.

Katz emphasized that the US remains the key to implementing this plan, with the condition that Hamas adheres to the terms of the ceasefire. He also noted that approximately 80% of Gazans desire to leave the territory, alleging that Hamas is obstructing their departure. The forced displacement of civilians in occupied territories is deemed a war crime under the Geneva Conventions, and Israel's attacks have internally displaced the vast majority of Gaza's inhabitants.

Since October 2024, Israeli assaults have resulted in 73,470 deaths in Gaza, with over 1,330 fatalities since the ceasefire began.