Israeli ministers have expressed strong support for US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to “clean out” the Gaza Strip and resettle Palestinians in neighbouring countries, such as Jordan and Egypt.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich defended the plan on Sunday, suggesting that after decades of hardship and a persistent desire to destroy Israel, relocating Gaza’s population to other regions would offer them better opportunities.
Smotrich emphasised that traditional solutions like a divided land or a Palestinian state were unrealistic and that innovative approaches were necessary to bring peace and security.
Former National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also praised Trump’s initiative, calling for the Israeli government to actively promote voluntary emigration of Gaza’s residents.
He underscored the importance of following through with Trump’s proposal, describing Gaza as a “demolition site.”
Trump’s proposal came shortly after a ceasefire took effect on January 19, ending a devastating conflict that resulted in the Israeli military killing over 47,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and widespread destruction.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with more than 11,000 missing and a staggering number of civilian casualties.
Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, citing war crimes committed during the bombardment of Palestinian territories.
