Smotrich: ‘Voluntary migration’ of Gazans to Muslim countries ‘is not racism’

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich advocated for Muslim countries to accept Gazan residents who voluntarily depart the Gaza Strip, arguing that such a policy "is not racism." Speaking at the National Conservatism Conference in Jerusalem, Smotrich presented his proposals as part of a broader strategy to end Israel's ongoing conflicts and redefine its regional defense.

He emphasized that the ideal destination for those seeking to leave Gaza would be Muslim Arab nations, sharing their language, religion, and culture. Smotrich insisted that his call for "voluntary migration" of Muslims was distinct from forced removal, stressing the need for a legitimate, lawful, and dignified alternative to displacement.

International humanitarian law strictly prohibits the coercion of civilians from occupied territories, a principle Arab governments have consistently denied when it comes to resettling large populations of Gazans beyond the Strip. Smotrich's stance aligns with his long-held belief that Gaza's population should be significantly diminished through voluntary emigration, a notion he reiterated following the October 7 tragedy.

He also proposed retaining Israeli control over Gaza while facilitating the "voluntary immigration" of its inhabitants. This idea has since gained traction among other political figures, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who suggested in July that such a migration could still be a consideration, though he has shown less enthusiasm for reinstating Israeli settlements in Gaza.

The discussion gains significance as Israel maintains control over over 60% of Gaza nearly a year after a US-backed ceasefire, while Hamas remains armed and reconstruction efforts remain largely stagnant.